Veteran journalist and Ovation Magazine publisher, Dele Momodu, has voiced deep concerns over what he calls the systematic coercion of Nigerian politicians into the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Momodu claimed that several defections to the ruling party were motivated by fear and political pressure, not ideological alignment.
According to Momodu, the recent wave of high-profile defections—including that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa—highlights a disturbing trend.
“Nobody is joining APC out of admiration for Tinubu or his policies. This is pure survival instinct,” he said.
Momodu further remarked that political persecution has replaced public service as a motivating factor for party loyalty in Nigeria. “Back in the day, political figures like Nelson Mandela, MKO Abiola, and Chief Obafemi Awolowo were willing to go to prison for what they believed. Today, everyone just wants to protect their wealth and avoid legal troubles,” he noted.
He alleged that government agencies like EFCC and ICPC are being weaponized to pressure governors and opposition figures into submission. “Name one politician that hasn’t been investigated. It’s a tactic of fear,” he emphasized.
Governor Oborevwori and former Vice Presidential candidate Okowa recently left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC. Okowa justified the move in a widely circulated social media video, saying:
“We’re taking the best path for our people.”
Similarly, Senator Kawu Sumaila of Kano South defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC, ahead of the 2027 elections.
Momodu accused President Tinubu’s administration of relying more on intimidation than democratic persuasion.
“This regime says, ‘If we can’t win you over, we’ll break you down.’ And sadly, it’s working — for now,” he stated.
He criticized the internal dynamics of the APC, saying that financial benefits are the only force holding the party together. He also pointed out the party’s ironic shift in attitude towards former President Buhari, blaming him for Nigeria’s challenges while now seeking his validation.
On the issue of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Momodu referenced his controversial suspension, allegedly orchestrated by Minister Nyesom Wike.
“That action was a warning to all governors. Fubara did nothing wrong, yet he was abruptly removed. If that’s not coercion, what is?”
Momodu appealed to President Tinubu to focus on upholding democratic values instead of pursuing power by force.
“You were once a symbol of democracy. Let democracy thrive, or history may not be kind to your legacy,” he warned.
Read more about APC’s internal struggles and party instability
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