‘Datti Baba-Ahmed Is Like a Jilted Lover’ – Dele Momodu Responds to Criticism of ADC Politicians

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Former presidential aspirant Dele Momodu has responded sharply to comments made by Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, regarding politicians in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Baba-Ahmed, who recently announced his intention to run for president in 2027, described some ADC members—especially those who left the Labour Party—as disgruntled politicians and “political travellers.”

Comparing Politics to Strategy, Not Emotion

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, Momodu likened Baba-Ahmed’s remarks to the behavior of a “jilted lover,” suggesting that personal frustration was fueling his harsh critique.

“Politics should not be based on grudges or emotional outbursts,” Momodu said. “Election victory depends on strategy, structure, and alignment with platforms capable of delivering results.”

He emphasized that effective politics is essentially “a game of mathematics,” where planning and coalition-building outweigh individual grievances or emotional reactions.

Momodu’s Perspective on Baba-Ahmed

Momodu expressed surprise at the tone of Baba-Ahmed’s statements, framing them as unproductive.
“He has a right to say whatever he wants. I’m honestly shocked by the way he talks down on other politicians,” Momodu explained. “He can contest if he wishes, but he knows the Labour Party today is not what it was during the last election.”

He suggested that Baba-Ahmed’s criticism reflects personal disappointment after participating in the 2023 election as Peter Obi’s running mate.

“I’m not concerned at all. He’s aggrieved—like a jilted lover. He ran with Peter Obi last time and probably expected to run again, but they shouldn’t turn themselves into serial contestants. Only serial contestants ignore the bigger picture,” Momodu added.

Historical Context and Political Lessons

Momodu also drew attention to the foresight of past political leaders. He noted that Atiku Abubakar, in 2019, recognized Peter Obi as a rising political star and strategically chose him as running mate despite initial opposition from some governors. This, he argued, demonstrates the importance of long-term vision and collaboration in politics, rather than focusing on short-term personal setbacks.

Commentary: Navigating Political Frustration

Political analysts suggest that Momodu’s response underscores a key tension in Nigerian politics: the clash between personal ambition and collective strategy. By framing Baba-Ahmed as emotionally motivated, Momodu is reinforcing the idea that enduring political success depends on aligning with established platforms, maintaining discipline, and prioritizing coalition-building over personal grievances.

Observers note that such public exchanges, while seemingly personal, often signal broader strategic positioning ahead of upcoming elections. It reminds politicians and the public alike that credibility and structured engagement are more influential than emotion-driven critiques in shaping electoral outcomes.