The Convener of the Alternative Movement, Otunba Segun Showunmi, has reaffirmed his commitment to national unity and democratic governance, insisting that his respect for the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola’s sacrifice remains unwavering.

Showunmi, in a statement titled” My Scar from MKO Abiola, My Sacrifice for Democracy, and My Unwavering Pan-Nigerian Conviction”, said that the circumstances surrounding Abiola’s death and the struggle to actualise the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate had left an indelible mark on his life.

He maintained that he had no intention of trivialising Abiola’s sacrifice or allowing his comments on Nigeria’s political situation to be misinterpreted.

According to him, his warning to political contestants, particularly those threatening to release unverified election results, was aimed at preventing actions capable of undermining national stability or bringing individuals into conflict with the law.

Showunmi explained that his reference to the political events of 1992 was intended to illustrate the dangers of abandoning caution, restraint and respect for the law during politically sensitive periods.

“My intervention was a warning about consequences, not an invitation to recklessness,” he said, adding that he would not allow his remarks to be distorted by what he described as reactionary forces.

He further cited a Yoruba proverb to emphasise the importance of heeding advice, noting that people often recognise the value of counsel only after experiencing the consequences of ignoring it.

The politician also declared that he remained committed to a united Nigeria, stressing that he had no interest in promoting ethnic superiority or advancing sectional interests.

He urged those who identify as Yoruba activists to understand that his words and actions were guided by his commitment to the Nigerian nation rather than ethnic sentiments or exclusionary politics.

Showunmi described the late Abiola as a figure whose memory remained inseparable from Nigeria’s democratic struggle, praying that his sacrifice would continue to inspire the country towards a more stable, just and enduring democracy.

On the issue of power rotation, he reiterated his position that Nigeria should manage political power through a pendulum arrangement between the northern and southern parts of the country.

He argued that a predictable and mutually respected power-sharing arrangement could reduce political suspicion, strengthen national cohesion and promote democratic stability.

Showunmi also acknowledged the role of media entrepreneur Dele Momodu in the events surrounding the democratic struggle, describing his contribution as significant and deserving of recognition.

He disclosed that he would, in the future, provide a fuller account of his personal contributions to the struggle for democracy and explain how the events surrounding Abiola shaped his political convictions and subsequent journey.

The statement concluded with Showunmi reaffirming his loyalty to Nigeria and the democratic ideal, insisting that his commitment to national unity should not be mistaken for a lack of historical understanding or personal conviction.

“My commitment is to Nigeria. My loyalty is to the democratic ideal. My respect for MKO Abiola’s sacrifice is enduring,” he said, adding that his belief in Nigeria’s capacity to survive, mature and prosper remained unshaken.