Founder of Ovation magazine, Chief Dele Momodu, has formally defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), pledging to work with like-minded Nigerians to rescue and reposition the country.
Momodu made the declaration on Thursday in Benin during his official defection to the party, stressing that his move was not motivated by personal political ambition but by a commitment to national renewal.
He said he has no intention of contesting for any elective office, but is determined to contribute to correcting what he described as deep-rooted challenges facing the nation.
“Today, I stand before my leaders as I humbly reintegrate myself into the democratic process of my state,” Momodu said.
“Many people have asked whether I intend to contest for governor or senator, but I tell them clearly that my interest is to promote the welfare and aspirations of our people.
“My decision to pick up the party card today is only the beginning of a journey. My mission is to join hands with citizens of like minds to rescue, recover and reset Nigeria.”
He warned against what he described as Nigeria’s drift towards a one-party state, calling for collective action to safeguard democracy.
“Nigeria must be rescued from the drift towards a one-party state. This task requires the total commitment of the majority of Nigerians who refuse to be enslaved in their own country,” he added.
Earlier, former Governor of Edo State and prominent ADC leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, described Momodu’s defection as a major boost for the party and a significant moment for the country.
Oyegun said Nigeria has laboured under a heavy burden since independence, noting that the current situation demands the involvement of principled and patriotic citizens.
“Today is unique in the history of the African Democratic Congress because it marks a significant milestone in our quest to reposition Nigeria,” he said.
“Chief Dele Momodu is one of the Nigerians who played a key role in keeping the military out of politics. Today, we find ourselves in another existential struggle that will determine the future of this country.”
He clarified that the move was not yet a campaign but part of a broader effort to mobilise credible Nigerians.
“This is not yet a campaign, but we are warming up—gathering friends, men and women of integrity, and principled minds like Dele Momodu,” Oyegun said.
Describing Momodu as a non-conventional politician, Oyegun noted that his background as a media professional who has consistently held leaders accountable makes his decision to join the ADC particularly significant.
“The burden Nigerians have carried since independence has become unbearable, and we must all work together to redeem the country from this needless hardship,” he added.
