ABEOKUTA – A prominent Nigerian political figure and Convener of The Alternative Movement, Otunba Segun Showunmi, has issued a sharply worded response to an open letter from Kio, dismissing it as “theatrical” and lacking substance while defending his political choices and associations.
In the statement issued in Abeokuta at the weekend, Showunmi criticized what he described as “sweeping claims and grand threats,” arguing that Kio’s intervention amounted to “empty boasting” rather than a meaningful contribution to public discourse.
Responding to references to businessman Gilbert Chagoury and past controversies linked to the era of former military ruler Sani Abacha, Showunmi argued that allegations do not equate to convictions.
He also rejected any suggestion that lineage confers authority, referencing Kio’s father, Godfrey Kio Jaja Amachree, and stressing that public accountability lies with legally established institutions, not individuals.
Addressing concerns raised about his recent political activities, Showunmi defended his visit to President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a constitutional right and a matter of personal prerogative.
He maintained that such engagements are not subject to external approval.
On his political alignment, Showunmi acknowledged his past support for Atiku Abubakar under the Peoples Democratic Party, but emphasized that political positions can evolve.
He argued that democratic participation is dynamic and highlighted what he called the need for a regional balance of power between Nigeria’s North and South as a stabilizing factor.
The statement also addressed allegations concerning business relationships, including references to Seyi Tinubu.
Showunmi dismissed these claims as speculative and unsupported, warning that repeated publication of unverified allegations could result in legal action.
He maintained that historical claims must be assessed within legal frameworks and cannot serve as permanent judgments without current adjudication.
Showunmi further dismissed threats of litigation from Kio, stating that courts require evidence rather than rhetoric and warning that any defamatory claims would be contested.
He reiterated that legal matters should be handled through proper judicial channels rather than public exchanges.
Showunmi, therefore, downplayed the significance of the dispute, indicating he would not engage in further exchanges as he focuses on upcoming political plans.
He cautioned against what he described as “bluster” and “outrage,” asserting that neither equates to authority or proof.
