Prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader in Ogun State, Chief Segun Sowunmi, has called on political actors—particularly those in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the PDP—to commit fully to nation-building and address the various issues facing Nigeria.
Sowunmi made this appeal during a virtual Business Meeting hosted by the Ogun State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). The meeting took place as Nigeria commemorated 26 years of unbroken democratic rule.
READ ALSO: Reinstate Fubara in spirit of June 12, Bode George tells Tinubu
In his address themed, “Politics and Public Relations: Assessing Our Democratic Journey as a Nation,” the former spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, stressed the importance of collective responsibility in making Nigeria work: “We have only one country, and we must do everything humanly possible to make it work.”
He acknowledged the country’s enduring democratic journey, stating that the Fourth Republic, despite its imperfections, had lasted longer than any of Nigeria’s earlier attempts at democratic governance.
“Never mind that better-qualified men could not sustain the First, Second, or Third Republics. But this one—though not run by the best philosophers—has lasted 26 years. There must be something we’ve learned, or some group habits we’ve dropped.”
Highlighting the challenges of insecurity and poverty, Sowunmi pointed out that these issues were often exacerbated by the extravagant conduct of political leaders.
“Poverty alone doesn’t push people into crime. They get emboldened when they see leaders living ostentatiously. It creates a desire to emulate them—by any means necessary.”
He contrasted the communication strategies of both major parties, acknowledging the APC’s effective branding and messaging while criticizing the PDP for failing to gain public sympathy.
“The objective of a PR manager must be believability. My party, the PDP, must first stop its internal haemorrhaging. They need to engage professionals and welcome external consultants who can recommend meaningful reforms.”
“Our rivals, the APC, have mastered the art of perception. That’s why they can get away with so much, while PDP often fails to earn public sympathy—even when bending over backwards.”
He concluded by urging public relations professionals to become more actively involved in political discourse and governance, underlining the pivotal role of strategic communication in a functioning democracy.
Earlier in her welcome address, Mrs. Oluwaseun Boye, Chairperson of NIPR Ogun Chapter, commended the collective efforts of the state chapter which led to their recognition at the 2025 Nigeria Public Relations (PR) Week in Uyo, where they received the Diamond Anniversary Engagement Award.
“This prestigious recognition is not just a plaque—it’s a tribute to our resilience, consistency, and shared commitment to the ideals of our profession,” she said.
She added that the June Business Meeting offered an essential platform to reflect on the nation’s democratic journey and the vital role of public relations in national development.
 leader in Ogun State, Chief Segun Sowunmi, has called on political actors—particularly those in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the PDP—to commit fully to nation-building and address the various issues facing Nigeria.){kind=link}