“Sowunmi Hails Tinubu’s Mental Agility, Slams Atiku Coalition: ‘I’m Not His Follower’”

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Sowunmi, has denied claims that he betrayed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar by meeting with President Bola Tinubu during the Eid celebrations. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Sowunmi clarified that his engagement with the All Progressives Congress (APC) leader was not an act of defection or betrayal.

“I am at liberty as an adult to take decisions,” Sowunmi declared, emphasizing his autonomy. “I am not tied to anybody. I am not anti-Tinubu.” This statement has sparked widespread debate given his previously vocal criticism of Tinubu. Still, he was firm in asserting his independence and right to engage political leaders regardless of party lines.

Sowunmi further addressed his critics, saying, “I own my mouth, I own my words, and I own my arguments.” According to him, his loyalty to the PDP remains intact, but he maintains his individuality and the freedom to engage in critical discourse, including with figures outside his party.

Tinubu Is Smarter Than Peter Obi, Others’ – PDP Chieftain Makes Bold Claim

In a controversial assessment of the 2023 presidential contenders, Sowunmi praised President Tinubu’s political acumen, describing him as “miles ahead” of his rivals, including Labour Party’s Peter Obi. He noted that Tinubu’s strategic thinking and multi-faceted leadership style distinguish him in Nigeria’s political landscape.

“Do you know the difference between Bola and them?” Sowunmi asked rhetorically. “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.”

The remarks are generating intense reactions, especially from PDP loyalists and supporters of Peter Obi, who view Sowunmi’s comments as a shift in allegiance. However, the PDP chieftain insists his analysis is grounded in observation, not partisanship.

Clarifying His Stance On Atiku: ‘I’m Not In His Coalition’

On allegations of betraying Atiku Abubakar, Sowunmi was unapologetic. He stated that he is not part of any current political coalition led by the former vice president. “Is he (Atiku) running for president now? He’s running a coalition that everybody knows I am not part of,” Sowunmi said.

He challenged the notion that his past association with Atiku should define his current political engagements. “Why would even in your wildest dream think I don’t have my individuality because of what? Do you know how long I have been in the party?” he queried.

Sowunmi emphasized that political engagement should not be viewed through the lens of blind loyalty. He expressed concern that party members often turn to figures like Tinubu only after electoral losses, rather than engaging proactively for the nation’s good.

Tinubu’s Policies Should Not Be Demonised’ – Sowunmi Urges Objectivity

Sowunmi revealed that his visit to President Tinubu’s Bourdillon residence during the Eid festivities was motivated by concern over Nigeria’s democratic direction. He said it was time to objectively assess Tinubu’s leadership after two years in office rather than blindly criticizing his policies.

“I was concerned that this democracy was faltering, and I don’t think it was his fault,” he stated. “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.”

The PDP stalwart said his meeting was also a personal inquiry into the president’s health and cognitive capacity. “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 observed. He praised Tinubu’s mental agility, describing him as “above average” and capable of steering the nation forward.

I Won’t Take Tinubu’s Appointment – Sowunmi Reiterates Party Loyalty

Despite his praise for Tinubu, Sowunmi made it clear he has no intention of joining the APC or accepting any government appointment under the current administration while remaining a PDP member. “I won’t accept Tinubu’s appointment whilst a PDP member,” he affirmed.

Sowunmi’s clarification comes amidst a pattern of defections and shifting loyalties among top opposition figures. Notably, another former Atiku spokesman, Daniel Bwala, met with President Tinubu in 2024 and was later appointed as Special Adviser on Policy Communication — a move widely seen as political realignment.

With political tensions rising and the 2027 elections on the horizon, Sowunmi’s statements could reshape discourse within the PDP. His remarks have ignited conversations about internal democracy, political maturity, and the future direction of Nigeria’s opposition.