Media mogul and prominent politician, Chief Dele Momodu, has stirred conversations around the 2027 general elections with his bold declaration that he currently sees no one more suitable than former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to lead a united opposition against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during a political roundtable in Abuja on Thursday, Momodu, who is the Publisher of Ovation International and a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized the need for a strong and credible coalition that can present a unified front in the next presidential race. He suggested that Atiku Abubakar, having shown consistency and political resilience, remains the most viable option within the opposition fold.

“Atiku Stands Tall Among Others” – Momodu

“There is no other person I can see right now who has the structure, the experience, the network, and the national appeal like Waziri Atiku Abubakar,” Momodu stated.

According to him, while Nigeria is not short of capable minds, the 2027 elections will require a candidate with proven political weight and cross-regional influence to mount a serious challenge against the incumbent administration.

“I say this not to slight any other person, but based on political reality and strategic positioning. Atiku has paid his dues and remains a central figure in the democratic struggle of this country,” he added.

Momodu’s endorsement appears to be a clarion call for opposition parties to begin early consultations and realignments, especially following the fragmentation witnessed during the 2023 elections, where multiple candidates split the opposition vote.

The Call for a United Opposition

The media entrepreneur, who also contested for the PDP presidential ticket in 2022, expressed concern about the dangers of a divided opposition heading into the next electoral cycle. He noted that failure to rally around a common candidate would only guarantee the APC’s hold on power.

“We cannot afford to repeat the mistake of 2023,” he warned. “The opposition must act with maturity and put ego aside. Nigerians are waiting for a real alternative, and we must not fail them again.”

He advised that conversations around coalition-building should begin immediately, allowing time to harmonize interests and develop a united policy direction.

Mixed Reactions Trail Momodu’s Statement

Momodu’s remarks have since sparked reactions across political and social platforms. While some hailed his analysis as a realistic take on Nigeria’s political terrain, others expressed reservations about Atiku’s repeated candidacy, with concerns that the opposition should consider younger or more dynamic alternatives.

A youth leader from the Labour Party, Ayoola Babajide, said while Atiku has political clout, Nigeria needs a generational shift in leadership. “We respect Waziri Atiku, but 2027 should not be business as usual. Nigerians are hungry for something different,” he said.

Conversely, PDP chieftain and former senator, Suleiman Ningi, backed Momodu’s call, saying the time has come for the opposition to close ranks. “If we are to reclaim power, then we need someone with reach, someone tested. Atiku has the scars and the supporters.”

Atiku Yet to Declare Interest

As of the time of this report, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has not formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 election. However, sources within the PDP confirm that consultations have begun in earnest within his camp.

Atiku, who contested and lost the 2023 presidential election to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has remained an active voice in national discourse. He has frequently criticized the policies of the current administration, particularly on issues of economic hardship, insecurity, and rising unemployment.

Political observers note that Atiku’s consistent engagement on national issues signals his continued interest in leadership and influence within the PDP.

Opposition Urged to Set Aside Differences

Momodu concluded his remarks by urging opposition parties—including the PDP, Labour Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and others—to focus on the bigger picture: rescuing Nigeria from worsening socio-economic conditions.

“This is not about PDP alone; it’s about Nigeria. We must unite. We need a coalition that cuts across party lines, ideologies, and personalities. The suffering in the land does not know political affiliation,” he said.

He also emphasized the role of the media and civil society in pushing for accountability and democratic consolidation ahead of 2027.

Looking Ahead

As political tension gradually builds ahead of the next general election, Momodu’s comments are expected to trigger more discussions around opposition strategy, leadership choices, and the future of democracy in Nigeria.

While it remains too early to predict the exact shape the 2027 race will take, the push for coalition and consensus may become a defining theme, particularly among those eager to challenge the APC’s grip on power.

For now, one thing is clear: the race for 2027 has unofficially begun, and Dele Momodu has set the stage for deeper political conversations.