Dele Momodu: The APC is Engineering Conflicts to Undermine Opposition Parties
Dele Momodu, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is deliberately instigating discord among opposition parties. He contends that this strategy aims to weaken these groups and ultimately steer Nigeria toward a one-party system.
In an interview with Arise News on Thursday, Momodu asserted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is leveraging state power to undermine significant opposition parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), which has hampered their ability to succeed. He characterized the PDP as its own worst enemy, pointing to lingering grievances from the 2022 primaries and accusing the APC of intentional efforts to weaken these opposition groups.
He expressed deep concerns regarding the escalating crisis within the party, attributing it to both internal fractures and external meddling by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). In discussing the internal challenges, Momodu highlighted that several party members who faced defeat in the 2022 primary elections are still grappling with the aftermath of their losses.
“Some individuals who lost in the 2022 PDP primary election are still feeling disheartened and have yet to move on from that experience. Interestingly, many of them have transitioned to another party; however, whether out of affection or disdain for the PDP, they find it difficult to entirely detach themselves from it.”
Momodu emphasized that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is deliberately instigating crises within opposition parties to undermine their strength. He stated, “Nigeria is clearly heading towards a one-party state. The ruling APC is so apprehensive of the opposition that it is orchestrating crises across various parties, particularly among the leading opposition groups such as the PDP, Labour Party, and NNPP. The situation is quite evident.”
He also voiced his concerns regarding the prevailing uncertainty of the situation, remarking, “There is no doubt about that. I have no idea how this will ultimately unfold, so we are closely monitoring the developments.”
Reflecting on the origins of the internal struggles within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Momodu identified the crisis as beginning when former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike lost the 2022 presidential primary to Atiku Abubakar and was not selected as the running mate. He elaborated, “The crisis originated from Governor Wike’s defeat to Atiku Abubakar in the primary and the subsequent failed bid for the vice-presidential position. When I mention ‘moved,’ I don’t mean in a physical sense; rather, it seems that spiritually, he is now aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC).”
“Nevertheless, he has not yet mustered the courage to join the APC, as he understands that he would not have the same influence he enjoyed in the PDP. Currently, where his allies hold significant power, he is supporting them and urging them to maintain the PDP’s precarious position.”
When questioned about whether the challenges facing the PDP arise from incompetence, a lack of direction, or disunity, Momodu refuted these assertions, emphasizing that the dominance of the ruling party plays a significant role. He remarked, “No, if you have a government that is utilizing all its state power against the opposition, what can you do? Wike would not possess such influence if he were not supported by the ruling government.”
“President Tinubu is aware of this reality. What saddens me is that I never imagined a day would come when Nigeria would be governed by a civilian administration that would stifle the growth of the opposition.”
He remarked, “Personally, I have nothing against the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but I’m worried. As a man who made a huge impact as a pro-democracy activist, it is obvious that his cronies are misbehaving all over the place and making it difficult for the opposition to thrive.”
Looking ahead, Momodu stressed that power is fleeting; the maximum duration in office is eight years. After that, what comes next? It’s not about the length of time in power but the quality of leadership during that time. This is why I am advising many individuals who are currently aligning themselves with Asiwaju. He may believe that they genuinely support him, but the reality is quite different. For many, it’s a matter of self-preservation. Having been sidelined in one party, they have turned to Asiwaju, using him as a shelter rather than truly standing by him. They should be rallying behind the ideals and principles, represented by the broom, instead.
In light of speculations regarding the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) potentially nominating a South-South candidate for the 2026 elections, Momodu expressed a nonchalant stance, emphasizing that the decision ultimately rests with the party members. He remarked, “I’m not concerned about which members are chosen; that’s for the party members to determine, provided the party endures until that time. However, based on what I observe today, I don’t believe they are adequately prepared, particularly our National Working Committee (NWC). Their readiness is questionable, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they announce a lack of interest in contesting the presidency in 2027.”
Dele Momodu: APC is Engineering Conflicts to Undermine Opposition Parties
