Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, Momodu argued that the emerging unity among certain opposition leaders is not rooted in genuine long term alignment. Rather, he described it as a response to mounting pressure from the ruling administration.
According to him, “Tinubu forced all of them together, and that is why they moved in the same direction. It could have been a good development, creating what might resemble a two party contest.”
The publisher of Ovation International made these remarks while reacting to the reported defection of Obi and Kwankwaso to the Nigeria Democratic Congress.
Obi, who was the Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, reportedly exited the ADC on Sunday alongside Kwankwaso, a former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party. Both cited internal legal disputes within the coalition and what they described as an unhealthy political environment as reasons for their decision.
Their move has fueled speculation about the possibility of a joint presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 election. However, Momodu cautioned against assuming that past voter support would automatically carry over into the next electoral cycle.
He questioned the certainty of voter loyalty, stating, “Can anyone say with confidence that Tinubu will retain the over eight million votes he secured previously? What assurance is there that Obi and Kwankwaso will also maintain their previous support base? The political landscape has changed.”
Momodu further suggested that if the next election is conducted freely and fairly, Tinubu’s vote count could drop significantly, possibly falling below three million.
He pointed to the electoral struggles of some G5 governors, who failed to secure senatorial victories in states such as Enugu, Abia, and Benue, as evidence that voter allegiance is shifting.
On the issue of coalition building, Momodu maintained that the ADC remains focused and resolute. While welcoming new entrants, he rejected any form of pressure or the notion that electoral success depends on a single individual.
He stated, “Those who wish to join are welcome. Those who do not wish to join are free to stay away. We cannot yield to blackmail or accept the idea that only one person can deliver victory.”
He also referenced the 2019 alliance between Atiku Abubakar and Obi, which did not result in electoral success. He noted that their separate bids in 2023 equally failed to unseat the ruling party.
Advising political stakeholders to remain composed, Momodu shared a proverb from his late mother, saying, “Stop running from what is chasing you, because you may run into something worse.”
He concluded by wishing Obi success in his political journey while emphasizing that no aspirant should be pressured to withdraw from the race based on the influence or claims of another individual.
