Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Sowunmi, has defended his recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu, stating that it does not signify a betrayal of his loyalty to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Speaking during a televised interview on Monday, June 9, 2025, Sowunmi explained that he retains the freedom to make independent decisions and engage with leaders across party lines.
“I am at liberty as an adult to take decisions,” he said. “I am not tied to anybody. I am not anti-Tinubu.”
Sowunmi, who previously served as spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar during the 2023 presidential campaign, met with President Tinubu during the Eid celebrations at the president’s Bourdillon residence in Ikoyi, Lagos. The visit drew mixed reactions, especially from PDP loyalists who questioned the motive and timing.
In his remarks, Sowunmi dismissed criticism of his actions, asserting his independence. “I own my mouth, I own my words, and I own my arguments,” he said.
He described Tinubu as politically astute and more strategic than his rivals. “Do you know the difference between Bola and them? He doesn’t have one approach to dealing with everybody. By miles, he (Tinubu) is smarter than them. He is smarter than Peter Obi, he is smarter than them,” Sowunmi stated.
Responding to claims that he had abandoned Atiku, Sowunmi clarified that Atiku was not currently contesting for the presidency and that the coalition the former vice president is leading does not include him.
“Is he (Atiku) running for president now? He’s running a coalition that everybody knows I am not part of. 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 asked.
Sowunmi also expressed concern about the state of Nigeria’s democracy and urged political actors to stop vilifying government policies without offering alternatives.
“I was concerned that this democracy was faltering and I don’t think it was his fault,” he said, referring to President 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.”
He praised the president’s mental alertness and capacity for leadership. “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. “I guarantee you, he is smart — above average.”
Despite his engagement with Tinubu, Sowunmi stated clearly that he remains a committed PDP member and would not accept any political appointment under the current administration.
The development follows a similar move by another former Atiku campaign spokesman, Daniel Bwala, who was appointed Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Tinubu in November 2024 after publicly reconciling with the president.
