A fresh debate has emerged within Nigeria’s opposition political space following comments by renowned political economist, Professor Pat Utomi, on the 2027 presidential race. The remarks, which touched on the political future of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have drawn sharp criticism from African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain and publisher, Dele Momodu. At the heart of the disagreement is Utomi’s warning that he would withdraw support for Obi should the former Anambra State governor accept a vice-presidential slot in the emerging opposition coalition.
Momodu described Utomi’s position as undemocratic, arguing that ruling out any legitimate political option undermines the principles of choice and inclusivity required to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy. His reaction, shared via his verified X account on Friday, has since reignited discussions about strategy, realism, and ideology in Nigerian politics ahead of 2027.
Momodu Faults Utomi’s Position on Democratic Choice
Dele Momodu expressed surprise and disappointment at Utomi’s stance, insisting that no individual or group should pre-determine the political limits of any aspirant within a democratic system. According to him, dismissing the possibility of Peter Obi serving as a vice-presidential candidate reflects a lack of faith in democratic choice.
In his words, anyone who insists that Obi must not run as a running mate “is definitely not a Democrat who wishes to rescue Nigeria from one-man dictatorship.” Momodu’s argument centres on the belief that democracy thrives on options and negotiations, particularly in coalition politics where compromise is often essential.
While making his point, Momodu was careful to acknowledge his long-standing respect for Utomi, describing him as one of Nigeria’s brightest minds. However, he maintained that admiration for intellectual brilliance should not prevent honest disagreement, especially on issues that could shape the country’s political future.
Strategic Realism Versus Idealism in Nigerian Politics
Momodu further argued that Nigerian politics requires strategic realism rather than rigid idealism. He noted that while global democratic models can offer useful lessons, Nigeria’s political environment has unique characteristics that demand locally tailored strategies.
Describing Nigeria’s political terrain as an “abnormal configuration,” Momodu stressed that electoral success in the country is rarely determined by intellectual depth alone. Instead, he said voting behaviour is often influenced by what he termed “primordial sentiments,” including ethnicity, religion, and regional considerations.
He lamented that Utomi appeared not to have fully absorbed these realities despite his own experiences in politics. According to Momodu, eloquence and intellectual sophistication — what he referred to as “big grammar” — do not necessarily translate into electoral victory in Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
Lessons from Past Elections and Obi’s Political Journey
To support his argument, Momodu cited the 2023 presidential election, noting that the All Progressives Congress (APC) opted for Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its flagbearer despite having a more academically inclined candidate in former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. For Momodu, this decision underscored the primacy of political reality over intellectual appeal.
He also recalled that Peter Obi’s emergence on the national stage was itself the result of strategic compromise. In 2019, Obi was selected as running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a move that elevated his national profile despite resistance from some party stakeholders at the time.
Drawing from this history, Momodu urged Obi to remain focused within his new party, the ADC, and to work harmoniously within its structures. He advised that humility and loyalty to party processes would better position Obi within any future coalition arrangement.
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