As the build-up to the 2027 presidential election begins to take shape, media mogul and former presidential aspirant, Dele Momodu, has weighed in on the current political landscape, asserting that only one southern politician has the capacity to mount a serious challenge against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — but he claims the individual is not prepared to “stress himself.”

Momodu made this statement during a recent political discourse aired on a Lagos-based radio station, where he discussed the strength and weaknesses of potential challengers to President Tinubu’s expected re-election bid. While he did not explicitly mention the name of the individual he was referring to, political analysts and followers have speculated that he may have been referencing former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections.

“He Has the Popularity, the Reach, But…”

According to Momodu, the unnamed southern figure possesses national appeal, youth support, and credibility that could match or even surpass Tinubu’s political machinery if properly harnessed. However, he expressed concern that the individual seems unwilling to fully engage in the rough and demanding terrain of Nigerian politics at the national level.

“He is the only southerner with a real fighting chance,” Momodu said. “But from what I can see, he’s not ready to do the hard work required. Nigerian politics isn’t a walk in the park. You have to sweat, struggle, reach out across the nation, negotiate, and sometimes fight dirty.”

Momodu, who is also a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized that leadership at the highest level in Nigeria requires more than goodwill and social media popularity.

“You can’t just rely on admiration from young people or moral superiority. That may work in civil society, not in politics as we know it here. The person I’m referring to has the tools, but does he have the will?” he asked rhetorically.

Oblique Criticism or Candid Advice?

While Momodu was careful not to directly name any individual, the political atmosphere following his comments has been abuzz with interpretations. Many believe he was alluding to Peter Obi, who, after a surprisingly strong third-place finish in 2023, has remained largely quiet on his future political ambitions.

Obi, widely praised for his performance in the last election, particularly among youths and urban voters, has yet to declare his interest in the 2027 race. Since 2023, he has adopted a subdued tone in political discussions, focusing more on policy dialogues, good governance, and economic reform conversations, rather than campaigning or attacking political rivals.

Some observers have argued that Obi may be waiting for a more favorable political climate or a broader coalition to emerge before re-entering the fray.

APC’s Advantage and PDP’s Dilemma

Dele Momodu also touched on the relative advantage of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the disarray within opposition ranks, especially the PDP, his own party. He pointed out that unless opposition parties begin coalition talks now and agree on a single credible candidate, Tinubu and the APC may coast to victory by default.

“APC will always have the advantage of incumbency. Unless we wake up now in the PDP, build alliances with other credible parties, and rally around someone formidable, we are wasting our time,” he said.

Momodu, who contested the PDP presidential primary in 2022, has been vocal about the need for reform within the party and broader cooperation among opposition elements.

Peter Obi Camp Responds

In a subtle response to Momodu’s remarks, a close associate of Peter Obi who spoke anonymously stated that the former governor is focused on long-term reform rather than immediate political noise.

“Peter Obi is not a conventional politician. He believes in preparation, policy, and substance over fanfare. He is consulting widely and has never ruled out 2027. But for now, his priority is holding the government accountable and advocating for good governance,” the source said.

He also noted that Nigerian politics is evolving and the days of playing to the gallery or making empty promises for votes are gradually fading.

Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz

Following Momodu’s comments, social media was filled with reactions, with many Nigerians debating the identity of the southern politician referenced. Some supported Momodu’s call for more visible political engagement, while others criticized him for downplaying the grassroots work already being done by politicians like Obi.

“This is classic political gaslighting,” one user wrote. “Obi’s approach is different. Just because he’s not dancing at rallies doesn’t mean he’s not working.”

Another user, however, supported Momodu’s concerns: “He’s right. Nigeria is not yet ready for passive politics. If Obi or anyone else wants to win, they have to build serious political structures.”

Conclusion

Dele Momodu’s recent remarks have reignited conversations around the 2027 presidential election and the readiness of opposition candidates to challenge the dominance of the APC. Whether his comments serve as a wake-up call or a veiled critique, they have undoubtedly sparked reflection on what it truly takes to succeed in Nigerian politics.

With just over two years until the next general election, all eyes are now on potential contenders to see who will rise to the occasion — and who may choose to sit out the storm.