Media entrepreneur and publisher Dele Momodu has criticised what he described as the “bullying” of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, insisting that Atiku deserves respect for giving Peter Obi his first opportunity to run as a vice-presidential candidate.
In a post shared on X on Monday, Dele Momodu said it was unfair that Atiku, who picked Obi as his running mate during the 2019 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party, is now being attacked by some supporters of the former Anambra State governor.
“It is extremely sad that a man who gave Peter Obi his first Vice Presidential ticket is being bullied in this manner. I wish to believe this is the handiwork of fake Obidients and agent provocateur,” Momodu wrote.
Speaking later during an X Space discussion, he addressed the 2023 presidential election and the ongoing debate over Obi’s performance, questioning claims that the Labour Party candidate was denied victory despite his strong showing in his traditional support base.
“You said Obi won, and they did not allow him to take power. In 2023, Peter Obi had almost 100 per cent of the votes from his territory and the votes were recorded, yet you said he was rigged,” he said.
Momodu also spoke on the challenge of building national political support, especially across regional lines, stating that no southern candidate could rely solely on regional strength to secure victory.
“Northerners will not die for any southern candidate,” he said, a comment that sparked criticism from some listeners who viewed it as dismissive of Obi’s appeal in the North.
Defending Atiku’s continued political relevance, Momodu described the former vice president as experienced, focused, and resilient, noting that he finished second in the 2023 presidential election.
“In the last election, whether you like him or not, he came second. I am proud of him because he stayed focused. If he wins, he wins… he still remains a former Vice President of Nigeria,” he said.
He added that the 2027 election could be Atiku’s final attempt at the presidency.
“This one is the last one; if he loses the primary, then that is the end,” Momodu said.
Momodu also called for civility in political discourse, warning against insults and online abuse across party lines, including against President Bola Tinubu.
“Do not let us behave like thugs. I will not agree to anyone abusing Tinubu on this platform. Saying mean things about people is a reflection of who you are,” he added.
Despite criticism from different quarters, Momodu maintained that he would continue to stand by Atiku, describing himself as “a last man standing.”
Credit: The Sun