Chief Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation magazine and a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has restated his support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the preferred presidential candidate for the proposed opposition coalition under the ADC platform.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Momodu emphasized that his backing of Atiku does not negate the right of other supporters—such as the Obidients—to campaign for their preferred candidates, including former Anambra State governor Peter Obi.
“My best choice is Atiku,” Momodu stated. “Just as Obidients will naturally support Obi, and Amaechi’s supporters will back him, I’ve chosen who I believe is the strongest candidate. This is a game of numbers, and currently, the most politically aggrieved region is the North.”
He also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of covertly promoting a southern candidate within the ADC ranks out of fear that Atiku could pose a serious challenge.
“They’re scared of Atiku, that’s why you’re seeing these coordinated attacks against him,” he said. “Governor Wike, for instance, has long advocated for a southern president, but since he now backs Tinubu, he’s out of the equation. No viable Southern candidate remains.”
Addressing the internal dynamics of the opposition coalition, Momodu called for an open and democratic primary process.
“I’ve never told anyone not to support Obi. He’s a close friend, and if I were to recommend someone to lead the coalition, Obi would be a strong contender. But everyone should have a fair chance,” he said. “Let all aspirants—Obi, Atiku, and Amaechi—test their popularity at the primaries. That’s the democratic way.”
Momodu concluded by appealing to all factions within the opposition coalition to embrace inclusivity and fairness as they work toward forming a unified front for the 2027 elections.
