2027 Presidency: Dele Momodu Knocks Pat Utomi Over Peter Obi VP Comments

2027 Presidency: Dele Momodu Knocks Pat Utomi Over Peter Obi VP Comments

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dele Momodu, has faulted comments by political economist Professor Pat Utomi on the party’s 2027 presidential ticket, insisting that anyone who claims Peter Obi cannot be a vice-presidential candidate “is not a democrat.”

Momodu made the remarks in a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday while reacting to Utomi’s comments following Peter Obi’s defection to the ADC.

Utomi, during a television interview on Thursday, had warned that he would withdraw his support for Obi if the former Anambra State governor accepted a vice-presidential slot within the emerging opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.

Expressing surprise at Utomi’s stance, Momodu described the position as politically unrealistic and contrary to democratic principles.

“Anyone insisting that Obi cannot run behind anyone is definitely not a Democrat who wishes to rescue Nigeria from one man dictatorship,” Momodu wrote.

While acknowledging his long-standing friendship and respect for Utomi, Momodu stressed that political success in Nigeria requires pragmatism rather than idealism.

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“Professor Pat Utomi is one of the brightest Nigerians I love and respect,” he said, but added that Nigeria’s political terrain differs significantly from theoretical models often referenced by intellectuals.

“My candid view is that every nation must have its own organic strategies, even while borrowing ideas from elsewhere. The Nigerian topography is an abnormal configuration,” Momodu stated.

He argued that intellectual brilliance alone rarely guarantees electoral victory in Nigeria, where what he described as primordial sentiments often influence voting behaviour.

“This is why statements like this credited to my egbon, Pat, often break my heart. He seems not to have learnt from experience that big grammar does not win elections,” he added.

Momodu cited recent political history to support his argument, noting that political parties often prioritise electability over perceived intellectual depth.

“The APC had a more cerebral Yemi Osinbajo, yet it chose Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its presidential candidate in 2023. The key word is reality,” he said.

He also recalled that Obi’s rise to national prominence began in 2019, when former Vice President Atiku Abubakar selected him as his running mate despite opposition from some party leaders.

“In 2019, one visionary gentleman, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, placed Obi on the national platform against the wishes of many governors and stakeholders,” Momodu said.

He concluded by urging Obi to embrace party discipline and flexibility, describing him as someone who should be “encouraged to be a humble party man” as preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 general election gather momentum.

2027 Presidency: Dele Momodu Knocks Pat Utomi Over Peter Obi VP Comments