The convener of The Alternative, Segun Sowunmi, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State, but says he will reveal his political party at a later date.
Sowunmi made the announcement on Friday during a visit to the secretariat of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Abeokuta, where he also canvassed support from political stakeholders ahead of the polls.
The former spokesman to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar said his ambition is driven by a desire to deliver “purposeful and quality leadership,” warning against reducing the 2027 election to a mere endorsement process.
His declaration comes amid moves within the All Progressives Congress (APC) to adopt a consensus candidate from Ogun West Senatorial District. However, Sowunmi dismissed the idea of a pre-arranged emergence, insisting he would participate in the race regardless of any such arrangement.
“As we approach 2027, the question is whether Ogun will submit to a coronation or allow a truly competitive process for the sake of future generations,” he said.
He further challenged all aspirants, including those endorsed by political parties, to engage in open debates to test their competence and readiness for governance. While acknowledging the long-standing agitation for Ogun West to produce the next governor, he described the demand as legitimate but cautioned against imposing candidates through consensus.
“Aspiration loses its meaning where there is no contest,” he added.
Sowunmi also called for the formation of a grassroots-driven coalition among opposition parties to challenge the dominance of the APC, dismissing elite-level coalition efforts as ineffective. According to him, enduring alliances must be built from the grassroots, especially as internal crises and legal disputes continue to weaken major political parties nationwide.
He decried the influence of money in politics, urging a shift towards issue-based campaigns centred on development rather than vote-buying and inducements.
“The governorship of Ogun is not about sharing rice or money. It must be about deliberate and strategic development,” he said, adding that his aspiration is rooted in service and not personal gain, while noting his record is free of political violence.
Speaking at the event, the South-West Vice Chairman of the Labour Party, Abayomi Arabambi, called for greater citizen participation in governance, emphasising that power ultimately resides with the people. He also expressed support for Sowunmi’s ambition and urged Nigerians to resist political and economic systems that undermine their freedom through unity and collective action.
In his remarks, the Ogun State Chairman of IPAC, Abayomi Sanyaolu, described the council as a credible platform for political engagement. He confirmed that Sowunmi has been duly recognised as an aspirant, commending his consistency and urging stakeholders to prioritise inclusiveness and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.