Showunmi urges Osoba to secure Egbaland’s political future in birthday message
Former governorship aspirant and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Segun Showunmi, has appealed to elder statesman and former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, to help ensure Egbaland is not sidelined in future political power-sharing arrangements.
In a lengthy message posted on his X account on Wednesday to mark Osoba’s birthday, Showunmi praised the former governor for his contributions to journalism, democracy, Ogun State and Nigeria, while urging him to address growing concerns over Egbaland’s political future.
According to him, many politicians and stakeholders in Egbaland have continued to ask what the next political dispensation holds for the region, warning that the people fear being left without meaningful representation at the highest levels of government for as long as 16 years.
Showunmi argued that concerns over political representation were legitimate, noting that major ethnic groups across the country actively negotiate and protect their political interests rather than leaving such matters to chance.
He also said a review of budgetary allocations, strategic appointments and key government positions over the past eight years had intensified calls for greater clarity on Egbaland’s place in the state’s future political structure.
The PDP chieftain noted that Osoba’s close relationship with President Bola Tinubu, as well as their reported support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, places him in a unique position to provide direction on the issue.
“We seek not privilege but fairness. We seek not dominance but inclusion. We seek assurances that Egbaland will not become a mere spectator in political arrangements that it has historically helped to build and sustain,” Showunmi wrote.
While urging Osoba to use his influence to protect the interests of future generations of Egba people, Showunmi stressed that the appeal was made with respect and in the spirit of ensuring equity and inclusion.
He concluded by wishing the former governor good health, peace and many more years of service, praying that God would continue to preserve and strengthen him.
