Chief Dele Momodu, the Director of Strategic Communication for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Council, shared his insights with DIRISU YAKUBU regarding the potential impact of a PDP-led government if elected. When asked about his confidence in Atiku Abubakar’s chances in the presidential election, Momodu expressed unwavering positivity. He emphasized that his support for Atiku is rooted in a deep conviction that he is the best candidate in the race. Having known Atiku for nearly 30 years, dating back to his 1993 campaign against MKO Abiola and Babagana Kingibe, Momodu’s endorsement is based on personal belief rather than party affiliation. He noted that his previous support for Buhari in 2015 and the Atiku/Obi ticket in 2019 was not tied to membership in the respective parties. Momodu firmly believes that Atiku has the necessary structure to realize his vision for Nigeria and is confident that his time has come, predicting a landslide victory for him.
Regarding the states Atiku is likely to win, Momodu explained that a presidential candidate must secure victories in four out of six geopolitical zones and achieve 25 percent of the vote in 24 states. He believes Atiku will be the first to meet these criteria, projecting that he will secure 25 percent in all 19 northern states and only need five states in the south. Momodu anticipates Atiku will achieve 25 percent in the South-South, South-East, and South-West regions, asserting that no other candidate can match this level of support. He pointed out that Bola Tinubu, Atiku’s closest rival, lacks significant support in the North and will struggle to gain traction in the South-West, where multiple candidates will compete. In Lagos, for instance, Momodu predicts a split vote among Tinubu, Atiku, and Peter Obi, with Tinubu possibly receiving only 30-35 percent of the vote. He also foresees competitive outcomes in Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo states, asserting that Atiku is the candidate most likely to secure 25 percent in every state.
Momodu outlined what Nigerians can expect from an Atiku-led government, emphasizing Atiku’s commitment to national unity in a country currently marked by division. He highlighted Atiku’s extensive experience and ability to build bridges across Nigeria, contrasting this with Tinubu’s regional leadership in the South-West. Atiku’s vision includes establishing a government of national unity and restructuring Nigeria to decentralize power, addressing the overreach of the federal government. He believes that state police will become a reality in a restructured Nigeria, drawing parallels with the diverse legal systems in different U.S. states. Momodu criticized the current state of governance, suggesting that the country has been stuck in a cycle of ineffective leadership.
In addition to national unity, Momodu emphasized Atiku’s passion for education, noting his significant investments in the sector from early childhood to higher education. He also highlighted Atiku’s commitment to agriculture, believing in its potential to produce sufficient food for Nigeria and for export. Momodu asserted that while other candidates may lack the necessary experience, Atiku has a proven track record. Furthermore, he mentioned Atiku’s plans for the media industry, noting a productive meeting he held with the Nigerian Guild of Editors, which underscores his seriousness about engaging with critical stakeholders.
When asked about the possibility of Atiku conceding defeat in a fair contest, Momodu acknowledged that Atiku has conceded in the past but emphasized that he has prepared thoroughly this time. He drew comparisons to other leaders, such as Ghana’s former Presidents and Nigeria’s own Muhammadu Buhari, who faced multiple electoral challenges before achieving success. Momodu believes Atiku’s journey will inspire young people to persevere in pursuit of their dreams. Finally, when questioned about any G-5 governors potentially returning to Atiku’s camp ahead of the election, he stated that he is not aware of any such developments.
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