Dele Momodu: Tinubu’s Police Escort Withdrawal Targeted at Atiku, Not Reform

Dele Momodu a prominent media executive and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deliberately targeting former Vice President Atiku Abubakar through the recent withdrawal of police escorts attached to him. Dele Momodu said the move represents “a calculated attempt to weaken and intimidate the strongest voice in the opposition,” insisting that it goes beyond normal administrative procedure. Dele Momodu argued that the development reflects a growing pattern of political hostility against critics of the current administration.

Dele Momodu described the withdrawal as unprecedented, stressing that Atiku, as a former vice president and national statesman, is constitutionally entitled to security protection regardless of political differences. Momodu maintained that stripping him of such protection raises dangerous questions about political abuse of state power. Momodu stated that the action sends a chilling message to the wider opposition camp.

Momodu further contended that the Tinubu administration appears increasingly uncomfortable with Atiku’s criticisms of governance and economic policy. omodu claimed the move was intended to create vulnerability around Atiku while also discouraging dissent. Dele Momodu insisted that democracy is threatened whenever security institutions are used as political instruments.

Momodu Rejects Presidency’s Defence, Calls It ‘A Cover-Up’

Momodu has dismissed the Presidency’s explanation that the escort withdrawal was part of a routine police restructuring. Momodu said such justification lacks transparency and fails to address the political implications of the decision. Momodu insisted that if the action were purely administrative, other former officials would have been affected in the same manner.

Momodu questioned why Atiku was singled out, especially at a time when he has intensified scrutiny of national policies. Dele Momodu stated that the timing alone undermines the government’s claim of neutrality. Momodu further accused the Presidency of attempting to downplay a decision he believes is deeply political.

Momodu emphasized that the government should refrain from using national security agencies to settle political scores. Dele Momodu maintained that the police must operate above partisan influence to retain public confidence. Dele Momodu also urged civil society organizations to remain vigilant in holding the administration accountable.

Dele Momodu Warns That Rising Political Tension May Endanger Democracy

Dele Momodu has warned that the tension between the ruling party and the opposition is escalating dangerously and could weaken Nigeria’s democratic institutions. Momodu noted that actions like the escort withdrawal contribute to polarization and mistrust in governance. Momodu said the political environment is becoming increasingly hostile and divisive.

Momodu argued that history shows how the misuse of security agencies can destabilize societies and erode democratic norms. Momodu urged leaders to safeguard the independence of national institutions and avoid actions that could inflame political rivalry. Momodu warned that Nigeria cannot afford any escalation in political conflict amid ongoing economic and security challenges.

Momodu called for immediate restoration of Atiku’s security privileges and a public explanation to avoid further speculation.Momodu stated that transparency will help reassure Nigerians that political persecution is not shaping national policy. Momodu concluded that democracy thrives only when opposition voices are protected, not suppressed.