2027: Sowunmi describes Peter Obi as ‘master of empty campaign’
Segun Sowunmi, the convener of the Alternative Movement, has criticized Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress for 2027, referring to him as a “master of empty campaign.” Sowunmi raised concerns about the substance of the policies advocated by the opposition politician during a segment on TVC’s Politics on Sunday.
When asked if the performance of President Bola Tinubu’s administration had bolstered the campaigns of Obi and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Sowunmi acknowledged that Obi’s appeal primarily stems from calls for greater equity for the South-East region, which has not produced a president in this republic.
“For all of this filibustering, the greatest thing you can bring to the table emotionally is the need for equity for the South-East,” Sowunmi stated, emphasizing that residents of the region have been historically underrepresented at the highest levels of government.
He expressed doubts about the validity of several claims Obi has made regarding his governance and the financial legacy of his administration in Anambra State. Sowunmi noted that Obi’s successors have contested his assertions that his administration left no debts, saying, “All his successors have been saying that’s not the true position of things.”
Sowunmi also scrutinized the lack of detail in Obi’s campaign proposals. He remarked, “What is he campaigning on? Peter is a master of campaigning on a prose that he doesn’t even know how to construct,” particularly criticizing Obi’s focus on transitioning Nigeria from consumption to production. Sowunmi argued that the initiative requires clearer details on implementation, funding, and timeframes.
Further, he challenged Obi’s assertions regarding agricultural potential in Niger State, questioning the methods a government would use to incentivize large-scale farming. “By what magic is he going to ensure? What is the cost component of what he’s trying to do? What is the timeframe by which he will implement it?” Sowunmi inquired, highlighting the complexities of agricultural policy.
He also indicated that any presidential promises must consider the processes involved in governance, including interactions with the National Assembly and the civil service. “He will not consider that he’s going to have a National Assembly that has to pass the budget. He will not consider the bureaucracy,” Sowunmi remarked.
Sowunmi’s statements come as Obi, Atiku, and other opposition figures continue to lay the groundwork for the upcoming 2027 presidential election. Previously, Sowunmi has offered varying assessments of Obi’s prospects and has recently expressed support for Tinubu’s re-election campaign.
