Dele Momodu refutes VP ambition with Atiku, backs coalition
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Nigerian media personality Dele Momodu has refuted claims that he intends to run as Vice Presidential candidate alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
- Momodu stated his focus is on supporting a coalition of opposition parties to unseat the ruling APC government, rather than contesting any election himself.
- He urged for restraint in political discourse and criticized the 'bullying' of opposition figures, emphasizing his commitment to coalition-building within the opposition ranks ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As a prominent voice in Nigerian media and politics, Dele Momodu's recent statement clarifying his position on the vice-presidential speculation is significant, particularly in the context of the ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. Momodu, through his publisher role and public commentary, has consistently engaged with the nation's political landscape, and his direct refutation of running as Atiku Abubakar's running mate carries weight.
His assertion that he is "not running for any race again" and is instead focused on "humbly supporting the coalition of political parties, to work together and oust the incompetent APC government" reflects a strategic prioritization. This stance suggests a belief that a united opposition front is more crucial for challenging the incumbent All Progressives Congress (APC) than individual candidacies at this stage. Momodu's emphasis on coalition-building aligns with broader efforts within the opposition to consolidate power and present a formidable front.
When I first received this poster from a friend, I dismissed it as a joke designed to distract usโฆ I will be most grateful if my friends and party members can do me the honour of ignoring this joke.
Furthermore, Momodu's critique of the "bullying" of opposition figures and his call for more restrained political discourse are important interventions. In a political environment often characterized by intense rhetoric and personal attacks, his plea for civility, even while criticizing President Bola Tinubu, highlights a desire for a more constructive political dialogue. His commitment to supporting whichever candidate emerges from his party, the African Democratic Congress, underscores a dedication to internal party processes and the overarching goal of opposition unity, making his perspective a key one to watch as the political landscape evolves.
Iโm not running for any race again. Iโm interested in humbly supporting the coalition of political parties, to work together and oust the incompetent APC government.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.