Ethnic Divisions Fracturing Nigeria's Opposition : Group Sounds Warning

 

Nigeria's Ethnic Fault Lines: Divisions Threaten Opposition's Future. — Showunmi 

A political pressure group, THE ALTERNATIVE; a National Opposition Movement has attributed the weakness of Nigeria's opposition to ethnic divisions. According to Otunba Segun Showunmi, Convener of THE ALTERNATIVE, these divisions hinder a united and effective challenge to the ruling party. 

Showunmi criticized opposition parties for failing to meaningfully engage with electoral and governance issues during a town hall meeting in Enugu. He dismissed the idea that forming new political parties would solve deeper structural problems in Nigeria's electoral process.

Instead, Showunmi emphasized the need for advocacy on electoral issues, pointing out that the country already has 18 parties. He questioned the effectiveness of adding more parties, citing the example of a president emerging with just 8 million votes out of 25 million.

Speaking further Showunmi argued that ethnic and sectional sentiments weaken opposition efforts to mobilize citizens and challenge electoral malpractices. He urged politicians to rise above tribal affiliations and build a more inclusive, issue-based movement.

The Convener also faulted opposition parties for failing to educate voters and tackle electoral fraud. He stressed that an opposition movement should address flaws in the electoral process, rather than relying on the federal government to effect change.

This call for reform comes amid concerns about Nigeria's electoral process and the need for a stronger, more united opposition.