Nigeria is at a critical juncture where populism alone will no longer suffice to elect a president, according to Segun Showunmi, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ programme on Thursday, Showunmi emphasized that Nigerians must move beyond emotional appeals and focus on the actual qualifications and track records of political aspirants. He argued that the era of relying solely on promises and catchy slogans is over, especially as the country prepares for the 2025 general elections.
Showunmi’s remarks come at a time when political parties across Nigeria are intensifying preparations for their primary elections. These primaries will determine the candidates who will represent each party in the upcoming presidential and parliamentary races. With the elections less than a year away, the political landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, and voters are being urged to make informed choices based on substance rather than sentiment.
Reflecting on the past administration, Showunmi pointed to former President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure as an example of a populist campaign that ultimately failed to deliver on key promises. “We have tried running a populist agenda for former president Muhammadu Buhari, and the result is that we have complained a lot,” he stated. He stressed that the public must now demand more accountability and tangible results from political leaders.
According to Showunmi, if Nigerians continue to prioritize emotional rhetoric over competence, the country will remain stuck in a cycle of unmet expectations. He called for a shift in focus toward candidates’ economic credentials, especially given the nation’s ongoing struggles with inflation, unemployment, and currency instability. “If we say our problem is the economy and how to make the economy work for the people, then we have to look at the economic credentials of the aspirant,” he said.
The PDP chieftain urged voters to critically examine the backgrounds, policies, and past performances of candidates before casting their ballots. He warned against being swayed by flashy campaigns or grandiose promises that lack concrete plans. Instead, he advocated for a more discerning electorate that values experience, integrity, and proven ability to govern.
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2025 elections, Showunmi’s message underscores a growing demand for political maturity and accountability. The coming election season may well be defined not by who can make the loudest promises, but by who can deliver the most effective solutions. The future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on whether voters choose to listen to substance over soundbites.
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