Segun Sowunmi, the former spokesman for ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has denied rumors that he plans to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
During an appearance on Channels Television's Sunrise Daily on Monday, Sowunmi clarified that his recent visit to President Bola Tinubu at his Lagos residence on June 8 was not driven by political motives, contrary to circulating rumors.
He stated that the meeting was a private affair and should not be seen as an indication of any political shift. He emphasized that, despite rumors, he continues to be strongly committed to the PDP and its goals and principles.
He stated, "I would have joined the APC by now if I wanted to switch parties, but this is not the time for that. I'm still with the PDP."
Sowunmi clarified that his handshake with Tinubu, whom he has known since 1994, was misunderstood by some Nigerians as an indication of defection.
It was somewhat confusing because, after my handshake with the president, many people assumed I was changing sides. Nigerians have a good sense of humor. I've been with this party since 1998.
He said, "I've had one handshake and a visit with the president, who I've known for decades. Do you really think I'm going to leave my party over that? No, it doesn't work like that."
The politician from Ogun, who ran as a governorship candidate in the 2023 PDP primaries, emphasized that after almost thirty years of Nigeria's democratic experience, attention should move away from party conflicts and towards forming agreements on national development.
"Having actively participated in our democracy for roughly 27 years, I've reached a point where I wonder if this system is truly effective. Why are people still unhappy? Instead of focusing solely on criticism, can't we find some common ground? If not, maybe it's time they consider moving ahead without us," he said.
Sowunmi revealed that his conversation with the president focused on four main topics, such as insecurity in the North, economic difficulties stemming from recent government policies, and political developments in Rivers State.
"I expressed my concerns about the situation in Rivers, and he offered explanations that were reasonable. I was also troubled by the insecurity in the North, where lives were being lost daily, and we discussed this issue as well. Although I acknowledged understanding his policy direction, I shared my worries with him regarding its potential impact on people," he added.
Remember that Sowunmi had revealed his intention to switch from the PDP to the APC before backing Tinubu.
Appearing on Arise Television's Prime Time show on June 10, Sowunmi mentioned that there is a strong possibility he might depart from the PDP.
Sowunmi's meeting with Tinubu sparked reactions in political circles and on social media, with many viewing it as a sign that he might be planning to leave the PDP.
The meeting occurred during a period when defections had altered the dynamics within the opposition, following the ruling APC's solidification of power after the 2023 general elections.
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