A prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Sowunmi, has sparked widespread reactions following his recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu during the Eid celebrations at the President’s residence in Bourdillon, Lagos.
Sowunmi, who previously served as the spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar, PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, clarified that the visit was not an act of disloyalty but a personal decision made in his capacity as an independent political thinker.
“I Am Not Anti-Tinubu”
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Sowunmi defended the visit, emphasizing that he remains committed to the PDP but retains his individuality and freedom of association.
“I am at liberty as an adult to take decisions. I am not tied to anybody. I am not anti-Tinubu,” he said.
He added that while he supports Atiku, the former Vice President is currently working on coalition-building efforts that he is not involved in.
“Is Atiku running for president now? He’s running a coalition that everybody knows I am not part of. Why would you even think I don’t have my individuality?”
“Tinubu Is Smarter Than Peter Obi”
Sowunmi did not mince words in his praise of Tinubu’s political and intellectual acumen. He boldly declared that the President is “smarter” than his rivals, including Labour Party’s Peter Obi.
“Do you know the difference between Bola and them? He doesn’t have one approach to dealing with everybody. By miles, he is smarter than them. He is smarter than Peter Obi, he is smarter than them,” Sowunmi stated.
He also commended Tinubu’s sharp mental capacity, adding:
“His brain is very alert. He is fit. You know when you are asking someone questions and he is answering without looking at the book.”
Sowunmi said he felt concerned about the state of Nigeria’s democracy and believed the blame was being unfairly placed on Tinubu.
“I began to be a little bit uncomfortable with the demonising of all policies by those who don’t understand what it takes to design futuristic ideas that could work.”
“No Interest in Government Appointment”
Despite his positive remarks about the APC-led administration, Sowunmi maintained that he has no intentions of accepting any government appointment as long as he remains a PDP member.
This statement comes months after Daniel Bwala, another former spokesperson for Atiku, met with Tinubu in November 2024 and was later appointed Special Adviser on Policy Communication.
