In a move that sent ripples across Nigeria’s political landscape, veteran journalist, publisher, and political commentator, Chief Dele Momodu, announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing what he described as the party’s takeover by “antidemocratic forces.”
Addressing a group of supporters and journalists at a press conference in Lagos on Thursday, Momodu — who contested the PDP presidential primary in 2022 — delivered a blistering critique of the party’s current trajectory, lamenting the erosion of internal democracy, the sidelining of visionary voices, and the dominance of political godfathers.
“I can no longer remain in a political house where principles are sacrificed for personal ambition,” Momodu declared. “The PDP I joined was built on the ideals of democracy, inclusivity, and national unity. Today, that house has been hijacked by elements who see politics as a game of power, not service.”
Clad in his signature agbada and cap, the Ovation Magazine publisher spoke passionately about the decline of Nigeria’s democratic values and his frustration with what he called the PDP’s “failure to reinvent itself” despite years in opposition.
“The same forces who ran Nigeria aground are the ones dictating the future of the PDP. What hope does that give the youth, the poor, or the millions of disillusioned Nigerians who still believe change is possible?” he asked.
Momodu’s move to the ADC, a party he described as “a growing platform for new ideas and untainted leadership,” comes as Nigeria inches closer to another general election season. Though the ADC is relatively smaller in structure and influence, political analysts say Momodu’s defection could signal a broader wave of discontent among reform-minded politicians within the larger parties.
ADC National Chairman, Ralphs Okey Nwosu, welcomed Momodu into the fold, describing him as “a man of conscience, courage, and clarity.”
“Chief Momodu brings with him decades of media influence, national visibility, and most importantly, a consistent commitment to democracy. We are building something different, and he is a vital part of that future,” Nwosu said.
Reactions have been swift. Some PDP loyalists dismissed the defection as inconsequential, while others warned that the party could be hemorrhaging key voices if reforms were not urgently pursued.
Political observers noted that Momodu’s departure is symbolic of a growing frustration among Nigerian intellectuals and professionals who feel sidelined in the country’s political conversation, often dominated by money, muscle, and regional allegiances.
In closing his speech, Momodu quoted one of his literary heroes:
“When the center cannot hold, the wise must move to rebuild from the fringes. Nigeria deserves better, and I will not be silent.”
As he embarks on this new political chapter with the ADC, many are watching closely to see whether Dele Momodu’s bold move is the beginning of a broader political reawakening — or simply the lone cry of a dissenter in a system resistant to change.
