In a significant political move ahead of the 2027 polls, the Labour Party (LP) has formally approached a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Otunba Segun Showunmi, to become its gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State.
A Strategic Visit by Labour Party Leaders
The offer was made public during a weekend visit by a high-level delegation of the Labour Party to Showunmi at his Abeokuta residence. The delegation was led by the party's South-West Vice Chairman, Abayomi Arabambi, and the Ogun State Chairman, Olubukola Soyoye.
Arabambi, speaking on behalf of the party, stated that Showunmi had been on the LP's radar for a considerable period. The party expressed conviction in his passion for good governance and his deep-seated commitment to democratic principles such as equity and justice, which they believe are crucial for advancing the welfare of ordinary citizens.
The LP leader was forthright in his criticism of the current administration, asserting that the All Progressives Congress (APC) government in Ogun State has failed to make life rewarding and meaningful for its people. He argued that this failure necessitates a change in leadership come 2027.
Showunmi's Honoured and Cautious Response
In his reply, Segun Showunmi described the Labour Party's gesture as the greatest honour he has ever received in his political career. He acknowledged the LP as a party with a stable ideology and significant political weight, referencing its impressive haul of over six million votes in the 2023 general elections as proof that it is not a pushover in Nigeria's political landscape.
Showunmi vowed to give the request serious consideration but outlined a deliberate process. He stated he would need to engage in wide consultations before making a decision. Notably, he listed the individuals he intends to consult, including President Bola Tinubu, former governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as the incumbent governor, Dapo Abiodun.
"You have called on me to contest on the platform of the Labour Party in 2027. I don't even know how to begin to thank you for this great honour," Showunmi said. "Reflecting on everything I have done in life, I can say I have never received an honour this great."
Potential Realignment Ahead of 2027
This development signals a potential major realignment in Ogun State politics. Showunmi, a founding member of the PDP who has been with the party since 1998, acknowledged the gravity of leaving a political home where he has invested decades. "When the time to depart comes, no one should be afraid of leaving their comfort zone," he remarked, indicating he is open to the move.
He also made a bold claim about the forthcoming race, stating, "For the 2027 governorship race in the state, I have looked at everyone in the race and have not found anyone more eminently qualified or better prepared for the job at hand."
The Labour Party's direct courtship of a seasoned politician from a major rival party underscores its strategic ambition to become a formidable force in Ogun State. The outcome of Showunmi's consultations and his final decision will be closely watched as a bellwether for the shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
