Momodu: Atiku Is Nigeria’s Most Prepared Leader Despite Past Betrayals

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A prominent Nigerian media figure has called for stronger cooperation among opposition leaders, urging them to rally around former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as part of what he described as a necessary effort to reposition the country politically.

The appeal came from Dele Momodu during a public lecture held in Jada, Adamawa State. The event formed part of activities marking Atiku Abubakar’s birthday celebration and brought together supporters and political associates to reflect on his career and influence in Nigerian politics.

Momodu used the platform to highlight the former vice president’s decades-long involvement in democratic struggles, noting that his approach to politics has consistently been guided by patience and non-violence.

Gossip News Now recalls that Momodu pointed to a significant episode during Nigeria’s political transition in the early 1990s. According to him, Atiku once stepped aside during the Social Democratic Party’s presidential primary election to support the late MKO Abiola, a move that helped Abiola secure the party’s ticket at the time.

Reflecting on that moment, Momodu portrayed the action as evidence of Atiku’s willingness to put collective interest above personal ambition. He argued that such decisions illustrate the former vice president’s commitment to democratic ideals and cooperation.

Momodu further suggested that Atiku’s political path has not been free of disappointment. Despite facing betrayals and setbacks throughout his career, he maintained that the politician has consistently chosen dialogue and restraint rather than confrontation.

Another point emphasized during the lecture was Atiku’s style of leadership. Momodu said the former vice president is not known for encouraging violence or surrounding himself with political enforcers, describing him instead as someone who pursues political goals through strategic planning and negotiation.

Legal Battles and Democratic Impact

The Ovation Magazine publisher also drew attention to Atiku’s repeated legal challenges following disputed elections. According to him, those courtroom contests have played an important role in shaping Nigeria’s constitutional interpretation and strengthening the country’s democratic institutions.

By taking electoral disputes through legal channels, Momodu argued, Atiku contributed to the development of jurisprudence around election law and the protection of democratic procedures.

Call for Political Collaboration

In his remarks, Momodu urged opposition politicians and civic actors to set aside differences and consider building a broad alliance around Atiku. He suggested that such cooperation could help address Nigeria’s political and governance challenges.

He warned that when capable individuals are discouraged from public service, the space may eventually be filled by less qualified leaders. According to him, encouraging experienced leadership is essential during periods of national difficulty.

Momodu ultimately described Atiku as someone with extensive experience managing people, institutions, and economic interests. He also commended what he called the former vice president’s readiness to challenge authoritarian practices in the past, even when doing so carried political risks.

Commentary and Analysis

Momodu’s remarks reflect a broader debate within Nigeria’s opposition politics about leadership direction and coalition building. In recent years, opposition parties have struggled to form unified fronts during elections, often weakening their chances against ruling political structures.

By advocating a coalition around a single figure, Momodu appears to be promoting the idea that unity among opposition actors could reshape the political landscape. Whether such alliances will materialize remains uncertain, given the complex rivalries that often exist within Nigerian politics.

However, the call highlights an ongoing conversation about leadership, experience, and strategy as the country’s political actors continue to prepare for future electoral contests.