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 High-Level Delegation Makes the Pitch
The invitation was extended over the weekend when a delegation of LP executives visited Showunmi at his private residence in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Ibara, Abeokuta. The team was led by the party's South West Vice Chairman, Abayomi Arabambi, and the Ogun State Chairman, Mrs Olubukola Soyoye.
During the meeting, the party officials revealed that Showunmi had long been on their radar. They praised his passion for good governance and his deep commitment to democratic ideals such as equity and justice, which they believe advance the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Criticism of Incumbent Government and a Direct Appeal
Arabambi used the opportunity to criticise the current All Progressives Congress (APC) administration in the state, accusing it of failing to improve the lives of Ogun residents. He argued that this failure necessitates a change in leadership come 2027.
"Labour Party members are here at your private residence to ask you to join us and drive our 2027 governorship ambition," Arabambi stated. "We have suffered enough under the leadership of the APC government, and the people of Ogun State must begin to smile."
He directly appealed to Showunmi, citing the dire state of infrastructure: "Our roads are bad, schools are in shambles, and urbanisation policies are being pursued with a hidden agenda. With your antecedents, experience, and pedigree, we know you have what it takes to offer a refreshing time for the residents of the state."
Showunmi's Cautious but Honoured Response
In his response, Otunba Segun Showunmi, who is also the convener of The Alternatives, described the LP as a party with a stable ideology. He compared it to workers' parties in other parts of the world, like China and Brazil, and noted that a party which secured over six million votes in the 2023 general elections cannot be taken lightly in Nigerian politics.
Showunmi called the gesture "the greatest honour" he had ever received. However, he vowed to give the request serious thought only after wide consultations. He listed the individuals he intends to consult, which is a notable mix of political figures:
- President Bola Tinubu
- Former Governor Gbenga Daniel
- Former Governor Ibikunle Amosun
- The incumbent Governor, Dapo Abiodun
"I have been with the PDP since 1998," Showunmi remarked, acknowledging the weight of potentially leaving a party he has been with for decades. "When the time to depart comes, no one should be afraid of leaving their comfort zone. So, I will go and think deeply about your request."
He concluded with a bold assessment of the emerging field, 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."
This development signals potential realignments in Ogun State's political landscape as parties begin early strategising for the 2027 governorship election.
