Sowunmi Defends Tinubu Over Health Rumours, Urges Nigerians to Reject ‘Self-Hate’

Convener of The Alternative, Segun Sowunmi, has urged Nigerians to stop spreading rumours about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s health, saying the President is in good health and sound mind.

Sowunmi made the remarks on Thursday at a town hall meeting in Ijebu North East Local Government Area of Ogun State, where he called for an end to hate speech and rumour-mongering.

“You cannot indulge in continuous self-hate to the extent that all you’re looking for is bad news. The president is in good health. The president is in sound mind,” Sowunmi said.

His comments followed claims linking Tinubu’s absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly to an alleged medical vacation and questions over his ability to contest the 2027 presidential election. The Presidency has said Tinubu’s absence from the UNGA was deliberate and unrelated to his health, while the President himself recently dismissed health rumours after returning from Europe.

Sowunmi argued that the President’s physical absence from the UNGA did not mean Nigeria was unrepresented, noting that Vice President Kashim Shettima attended the gathering on Tinubu’s behalf. He questioned whether Tinubu should have abandoned engagements involving major investments simply to attend the UN meeting.

He specifically pointed to investment projects involving Ogun State, including the proposed Gateway Deep Seaport and Blue Marine Special Economic Zone. The Ogun State Government and DP World signed agreements for the projects in September, with the Federal Government saying the deal was expected to attract more than $7 billion in initial investment.

The Alternative convener also criticised opposition politicians, alleging that they focus more on setbacks than developments he considers positive for Nigeria. He urged Nigerians to reject what he described as mischief and instead support efforts aimed at attracting investment and development.

Sowunmi further declared his support for Tinubu and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who is seeking the Ogun East senatorial seat. He argued that Abiodun’s relationships with the business community and the Presidency could benefit the senatorial district and the wider state.

He also called on voters in Ijebu North East and Sagamu to support Abiodun, while urging Ogun State to mobilise its large voter base behind Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections