Dele Momodu Urges Southern Aspirants to Back Jonathan or Peter Obi for 2027

Veteran journalist and media entrepreneur Dele Momodu has cautioned opposition politicians against relying on zoning ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, warning that such a strategy could ultimately strengthen President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television, Momodu argued that opposition parties must focus on building a strong political consensus rather than concentrating on regional power rotation if they intend to defeat the current administration.

According to him, insisting that the presidency must remain in the South may divide opposition forces and reduce their chances in the next election cycle.

“Strategically, there is no basis for zoning. Anybody who wants to remove Tinubu will have to come from the opposite direction,” Momodu stated.

He added that opposition leaders should consider rallying around a strong northern candidate such as Atiku Abubakar or Aminu Tambuwal if they are serious about mounting a competitive challenge in 2027.

Momodu stressed that zoning is not recognised in Nigeria’s Constitution and argued that political parties should avoid distractions that could weaken their electoral strategy.

The publisher also described the North as a powerful voting bloc capable of deciding the outcome of the election if it unites behind a single candidate.

“If the North fields one candidate, nobody can defeat them. I am sure about that,” he said.

He further advised southern presidential hopefuls, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, to meet and consider supporting a consensus candidate to prevent a split in southern votes.

“I would suggest that the southern candidates should meet urgently, if possible, and maybe they will withdraw for Jonathan or for Peter Obi,” he said.

Momodu warned that if multiple southern candidates remain in the race, it could work against the region politically and improve Tinubu’s chances of retaining power.

Looking ahead to the 2027 election, he predicted that the contest would likely be shaped by Nigeria’s most influential political figures and alliances.

He described both Jonathan and Tinubu as formidable contenders, while also pointing to the potential political strength of a partnership involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Momodu maintained that consensus remains the most practical path for the opposition, insisting there is little time to waste on divisive internal primaries if opposition parties truly want to challenge the ruling government successfully.