By Pwanagba Agabus, Jos
A group under the aegis of National Opposition Movement Coalition (NOMC), also known as ‘The Alternative,’ has highlighted the urgent need for a credible opposition to counterbalance government activities and restore citizens’ faith in democratic processes.
It also said it seeks to address the erosion of electoral integrity, lack of ideological direction in political parties, and declining voter confidence in the country.
Founder of the group,Otunba Segun Showunmi stated this at a Town hall meeting with critical stakeholders/youths in Jos the Plateau State Capital.
While lamenting the plight of ordinary Nigerians, Showunmi said the nation deserve leaders who would put the interest of its citizens first.
Speaking further, he emphasised that, “this coalition would not evolve into a political party, but would serve as a civic platform to engage political actors, national stakeholders, civil society, and democratic institutions.
“This movement plans to focus on advocacy and voter education to combat vote trading, where the highest bidder heist is undermining Nigeria’s democratic values.
“It will also work towards reorienting citizens on the consequences of electing individuals with questionable wealth or integrity into leadership positions.
According to him, “Nigeria’s political landscape has regressed significantly, with elections becoming progressively less credible despite improvements in guidelines by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He also criticised the judiciary’s declining integrity and the increasing role of violence and non-state actors in the electoral process.
“The reason for the birth of this movement is the need to rescue our nation and democracy from the danger we see on the horizon”, Showunmi stressed.
In his remarks, Chairman North Central Zone of the movement Adai Edwin Adai, said,”There is lack of transparency and accountability in the management process of government business.
“Unfortunately, the Nigerian parliament has precisely become extremely passive and dogmatic in their approach in carrying out their constitutional mandate of holding the executive responsible for their anti people policies”, he decried.
