Dele Momodu, a senior figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has criticised political economist Professor Pat Utomi for opposing former Anambra State governor Peter Obi taking a vice‑presidential slot in the party’s 2027 coalition, describing Utomi’s stance as undemocratic.
Momodu shared his views on his verified 𝕏 account Friday in response to Utomi’s comments following Obi’s official defection to the ADC.
Naija News reports that Utomi, during a Thursday television interview, had warned he would withdraw his support for Obi if he accepted a vice‑presidential role.
Reacting, Momodu expressed surprise, saying Utomi’s position ignored political realities and the spirit of democracy.
“Anyone insisting that Obi cannot run behind anyone is definitely not a Democrat who wants to rescue Nigeria from one-man dictatorship,” Momodu wrote.
While affirming his respect and long-standing relationship with Utomi, Momodu argued that Nigeria’s political landscape requires practical strategies rather than purely idealistic approaches.
“Professor Pat Utomi is one of the brightest Nigerians I love and respect,” he said. “What works in other democracies may not necessarily succeed here. Every nation must develop organic strategies, even while learning from others. Nigeria’s political terrain is uniquely complex.”
Momodu added that intellectual brilliance alone does not guarantee electoral success in Nigeria, where “primordial sentiments” often influence results.
“This is why the statement attributed to my egbon, Pat, saddens me. He seems not to have learnt from experience that ‘big grammar’ does not win elections,” he said.
He cited recent political examples to stress the importance of electability.
“APC had a far more cerebral Yemi Osinbajo, yet it chose Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its 2023 flagbearer. The keyword is reality,” Momodu stated.
He also recalled how Obi gained national prominence in 2019 when former Vice President Atiku Abubakar selected him as his running mate, despite objections from several governors and stakeholders.
“Obi should be encouraged to be a humble party man,” Momodu added.
His remarks came hours after another ADC leader, Dr Ladan Salihu, urged Utomi and Obi’s supporters to exercise restraint in discussions over the party’s 2027 ticket. Speaking on Arise Television’s The Morning Show Friday, Salihu advised members to focus on strengthening the ADC rather than engaging in early disputes over zoning and candidacy.
