Momodu Defends Atiku, Rejects ‘Hostile’ Narrative Toward Former Vice President

Veteran journalist and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Dele Momodu, has voiced his deep disappointment over the persistent “awful remarks” directed at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Speaking on News Central’s Politics HQ program on Friday, Momodu clarified the evolving political relationship between Atiku and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi. For Momodu, the social media hostility aimed at the former Vice President ignores the critical historical role he played in elevating his current political peers, particularly by providing them with national prominence.

The media mogul emphasized that Atiku and Obi share a deep mutual respect that is often overlooked by their respective supporters. He reminded the public that it was Atiku who first gave Peter Obi a significant national platform by selecting him as his running mate on the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) joint ticket in 2019. Momodu argued that while they did not win that election, the partnership was highly effective and served as the foundation for Obi’s subsequent rise as a major presidential contender. “They are not enemies; they are interacting all the time,” Momodu noted, describing Atiku as a “consummate democrat” who does not harbor long-term grudges.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Momodu declared his unwavering loyalty to the ADC’s institutional decisions. He vowed to support whoever the party eventually selects as its presidential candidate, whether it be Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, or Aminu Tambuwal. He noted that while his personal friendship with all these figures is well-established, his primary allegiance remains with the party’s choice. Momodu hinted that a victory for Atiku would feel “sweeter” given their long-standing professional history, but he remains fully committed to the “rescue” mission of the ADC regardless of the flagbearer.

The veteran publisher’s remarks also served as a call for political maturity among opposition supporters. He expressed concern that the constant infighting and character assassination within the opposition camp only serve the interests of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). By painting Atiku as a “perfect gentleman,” Momodu attempted to shift the focus from personality-driven conflicts back to a unified front. He insisted that the goal of the current coalition efforts is to provide a credible alternative to the status quo, which requires recognizing the contributions and experience of seasoned leaders like Abubakar.

Momodu’s intervention comes at a time of significant political realignment, with both Atiku and Peter Obi recently moving to the ADC to challenge the ruling party. His insistence that Atiku is a victim of unfair criticism is part of a broader effort to sanitize the former Vice President’s image as he prepares for what many believe will be his final quest for the presidency. For Momodu, the “generational shift” in Nigerian politics does not have to come at the expense of veteran statesmen who have spent decades building the country’s democratic structures.

In his concluding thoughts, the ADC chieftain reiterated that the Nigerian electorate is increasingly looking for leaders with a proven track record of bridge-building. He argued that the relationship between Atiku and Obi is a model for how political rivals should conduct themselves—with civility and a shared commitment to the nation’s welfare. By defending Atiku, Momodu is signaling to the public that the ADC is a platform where experience and youthful energy can coexist, provided the dialogue remains respectful and focused on policy rather than personal attacks.