A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dele Momodu, has criticised political economist Professor Pat Utomi for insisting that former Anambra State governor Peter Obi should not accept a vice‑presidential slot in the party’s 2027 coalition, saying such a position is undemocratic.
Momodu made the remarks on his verified 𝕏 account on Friday while responding to Utomi’s comments following Obi’s official defection to the ADC.
Naijaonpoint reports that Utomi, during a television interview on Thursday, had warned that he would withdraw his support for Obi if the former governor accepted a vice‑presidential role.
Reacting to this, Momodu expressed surprise, arguing that Utomi’s stance lacked political realism and democratic spirit.
“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 respect and long-standing relationship with Utomi, Momodu argued that Nigeria’s political environment requires practical strategies rather than idealistic prescriptions.
“Professor Pat Utomi is one of the brightest Nigerians I love and respect,” he said.
He noted that what works in some democracies may not necessarily translate into success in Nigeria.
“My candid view is that every nation must have its own organic strategies while it may study and borrow ideas from elsewhere. The Nigerian topography is an abnormal configuration,” he added.
Momodu lamented that intellectual brilliance alone does not guarantee electoral victory in Nigeria, where “primordial sentiments” often influence outcomes.
“This is why the above statement credited to my egbon, Pat, often breaks my heart. He seems not to have learnt from his own experience that ‘big grammar’ does not win elections,” he said.
Drawing from recent political history, Momodu pointed out that political parties often prioritise electability.
“APC had a far more fascinating and cerebral Yemi Osinbajo, yet it chose Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its flagbearer in 2023. The keyword is reality,” he stated.
He also noted how Obi first gained national prominence in 2019 when former Vice President Atiku Abubakar selected him as his running mate.
“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 urged Obi to embrace party discipline.
“Obi should be encouraged to be a humble party man,” Momodu added.
Momodu’s comments came hours after another ADC chieftain, Dr Ladan Salihu, called on Utomi and Obi’s supporters to exercise restraint in debates over the party’s 2027 ticket.
Speaking on Arise Television’s The Morning Show on Friday, Salihu urged members to focus on strengthening the ADC rather than engaging in early disagreements over zoning and candidacy.