In a significant political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, veteran journalist and former presidential aspirant Dele Momodu has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He formally declared for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City, the Edo State capital, on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
A Move Against One-Party Dominance
Momodu, addressing supporters and party members, framed his defection as a patriotic intervention. He stated that his return to active partisan politics was primarily motivated by a desire to promote the collective interests of Nigerians and to prevent the country from drifting into a de facto one-party state. He strongly emphasized that his decision was not driven by personal ambition, but by a need to strengthen opposition politics.
The declaration was described by Momodu as both a deeply political act and a personal homecoming, following decades of professional life and self-discovery outside his roots in Benin. He extended special gratitude to Senator Isa Raymond, whom he described as a father figure. Momodu revealed that Raymond had adopted him as a child upon his first return to Benin and coordinated the event.
Public Reaction: Scepticism and Criticism
The defection has sparked a wave of reactions from Nigerians online, revealing deep public scepticism about the motives and potential impact of the move. Many comments questioned Momodu's political track record and the timing of his decision.
Social media users were quick to express their doubts. One user, Ẹni buru mọ, wrote sarcastically: "Dele thinks politics is like his sycophantic magazine business. A person who couldn't even rescue his own household wants to rescue Nigeria. Dele, who couldn't even win a single delegate (0) in a primary contest."
Another commenter, Azcomgh, accused Momodu of pure personal ambition, linking him to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar: "It is very clear. He supports Atiku, whose record is dirty... He knows if Atiku comes into [power], he'll do better."
Supporters of Labour Party's Peter Obi also weighed in. Nsibassey claimed: "Dele has lost his values to stay relevant, choosing the wrong candidate makes it even worse. Peter Obi is coming." Others, like Uche Nwekpa, faulted Momodu's old-media approach, stating the era of editors shaping narratives from small spaces is over.
Background and Broader Political Context
Momodu's political shift adds a new layer to the evolving opposition landscape as the country looks toward the 2027 polls. His move comes amid ongoing tensions within the PDP and efforts to consolidate a formidable challenge to the ruling party.
The declaration also follows a recent public spat with allies of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike. Legit.ng had earlier reported that Wike's media aide, Lere Olayinka, fired back at Momodu after the journalist claimed Wike was absent during the fight against military rule. Olayinka retorted that while Momodu was studying Yoruba at university, Wike was studying law.
During his declaration speech, Momodu also recounted his struggles to establish himself economically in the United States, noting that the experience provided him with stability and a broader perspective on Nigeria's challenges.
As the 2027 election cycle gradually approaches, defections like Momodu's are expected to intensify, setting the stage for a fierce battle for the soul of Nigeria's opposition and the direction of its democracy.
