Dele Momodu, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has criticized supporters of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for referring to him as the best candidate in the coalition. In an interview on Channels Television, Momodu expressed disagreement with the Obidients’ insistence that Obi should be the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
The comments came in response to statements made by rights activist Aisha Yesufu and economist Prof Pat Utomi, both allies of Obi. Yesufu and Utomi had warned that their support for the party could be withdrawn if Obi is not given the ADC presidential ticket, citing his superiority among the party’s leaders. Momodu countered that describing Obi as the “best” is an insult to other leaders in the coalition.
Momodu’s reaction was prompted by the narrative emerging from sections of the Obidient movement, which he described as divisive and dismissive of other prominent figures in the party. He questioned the criteria used to determine who is considered the “best” or “worst” among the party’s leaders.
The ADC is a coalition of political parties and individuals working together to promote democratic values and good governance in Africa. The party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election has not been officially announced, and the debate surrounding Obi’s potential candidacy has sparked intense discussion among party members and supporters.
The development highlights the complexities and challenges of coalition building in African politics, where different interests and ideologies often come into play. As the 2027 election approaches, the ADC and other political parties will need to navigate these complexities to present a united front and increase their chances of success.
The controversy surrounding Obi’s potential candidacy also underscores the importance of inclusive decision-making processes in political parties. As Momodu and other party leaders continue to engage in discussions about the party’s future, they will need to balance competing interests and ensure that all members feel represented and valued.
