Sowunmi: Reasons PDP is More Mature in Governance Than APC, Tinubu’s Actions Deepen Party Rift
Segun Sowunmi, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has stated that the opposition party is far more mature and responsible in its approach to governance than the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Sowunmi rejected claims that the PDP is failing as an opposition force.
He criticized the APC’s approach to opposition before it took power, emphasizing that the PDP would never engage in actions that tarnish Nigeria’s image. Sowunmi recalled how the APC, while in opposition, encouraged protests, shamed the country, and obstructed efforts to secure arms for fighting insecurity under the Jonathan administration. He asserted that the PDP’s approach is rooted in maturity and a deep respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and national interests.
“We are far more mature than they are because we understand the importance of protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity. We don’t go out of our way to undermine the country like they did,” Sowunmi said. He added that the role of the opposition is to present alternative policies, not to destabilize the country or spread falsehoods.
“PDP Will Not Die,” Says Sowunmi Amid Party Crisis
Despite the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP, Sowunmi, who is vying for the party’s national chairmanship, firmly declared that the PDP is resilient and will endure. Responding to claims of the party’s decline, he pointed out that the PDP has survived numerous challenges, including when former President Olusegun Obasanjo left the party and when Goodluck Jonathan stepped down.
“PDP has survived through many storms and will continue to survive. A party that didn’t die when Obasanjo tore his card, or when Jonathan stepped aside, is not going to die now. PDP dieth not,” he declared.
Sowunmi Criticizes Tinubu’s Appointment of Wike
Sowunmi also took aim at President Bola Tinubu, criticizing his decision to appoint former PDP member Nyesom Wike as a minister. He argued that the president’s actions have only exacerbated divisions within the opposition party.
While some in the PDP blame Wike for the party’s internal struggles, Sowunmi placed the blame squarely on President Tinubu. “PDP would like to say Wike is the problem, but I would rather say President Bola Tinubu. He had no business appointing our member into his cabinet without consulting us,” Sowunmi said.
He compared Tinubu’s approach to that of former President Obasanjo, who sought broad consultation when attempting to form a government of national unity, a step Sowunmi claims Tinubu failed to take, leading to further division in the opposition ranks.
