Dele Momodu, a senior chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has raised doubts about the certainty of Atiku Abubakar’s victory in the 2027 elections, highlighting the unpredictability of the race and the shifting dynamics within the opposition.
Momodu, speaking on Channels TV Morning Brief ahead of the 2027 elections, was asked about the recent defection of Peter Obi from the ADC to the New Democratic Congress (NDC). He explained that while Obi’s departure was prompted by ongoing litigations within the ADC, it also signaled a deeper issue within the opposition coalition.
“There is no guarantee that Atiku will defeat Obi at the primaries because they are going to throw it open,” Momodu said. “Obi has chosen to go, and it’s his decision. I wish him the very best in testing his popularity elsewhere.”
Momodu’s comments come as the political landscape grows increasingly fragmented, with key opposition figures like Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso defecting to the NDC. Obi, in particular, has expressed confidence that a union with Kwankwaso would clinch the election by 12:00 noon, an assertion that Momodu believes must be tested in the political arena.
“You cannot force Atiku out for a man just because he claims that if he and Kwankwaso come together, the election is over by noon,” Momodu remarked. “It’s crucial to let others test their popularity elsewhere. But it’s equally important to recognize that the election is a game of numbers.”
When asked about Obi’s potential impact on the 2027 race, Momodu remained cautious, acknowledging the shifting political winds but stopping short of making definitive predictions about voter turnout. He questioned whether Atiku could retain the same support base from the previous election cycle, given the changing dynamics.
“How are you sure that Atiku will retain all those who voted for him the last time?” Momodu asked. “What is the guarantee that Obi and Kwankwaso are the only ones who will keep their voter base? The situation has changed. Tinubu today, if he allows a free and fair election, might not even get three million votes.
