Segun Showunmi, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has said the party is preparing to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 presidential election.
He made the remark during an interview on Channels Television while reacting to the activities of supporters of President Bola Tinubu.
Showunmi criticised what he described as the APC’s focus on governors and other powerful political figures rather than ordinary Nigerians.
According to him, political strength should not be measured by the number of wealthy or influential supporters a party has, since each person still has only one vote during an election.
He argued that the economic hardship many Nigerians are experiencing could motivate citizens to become more politically active in the next election.
According to him, the PDP plans to mobilise people who are struggling with poverty and turn their frustration into strong participation at the polls.
The PDP chieftain also said the party intends to carefully examine whoever emerges as its presidential candidate. He explained that the person would be closely scrutinised to ensure accountability before being presented to Nigerians.
Showunmi also criticised the “City Boy” branding associated with Tinubu’s supporters, describing it as childish and disconnected from the realities facing many Nigerians.
He said displays of wealth by political elites can irritate citizens who are facing economic difficulties.
He maintained that the PDP would focus on mobilising ordinary Nigerians, especially the poor, reminding them that their votes give them the power to decide the outcome of elections.
In his words: “That their city boy joke that they are doing, that’s for children, you carry your rich friends to be irritating people.”
