Chief Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation Magazine and member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has sparked national debate by criticizing rigid adherence to ethnic zoning in Nigeria’s presidential politics. Speaking on the 2027 general elections, the former presidential aspirant characterized the narrative that the presidency must remain in the South as “stupidity of the highest order.”
Momodu challenged the legal and moral basis for regional power rotation, questioning where such mandates are enshrined. “When, tell me, when in Nigeria was it written in the Constitution of Nigeria that it’s the turn of the South?” he asked during a recent interview. He argued that promoting a candidate solely based on their region, even if they fail to meet leadership standards, is “docile” and “backward.”
The veteran journalist expressed concern that the “turn of the South” argument is being used to manipulate the electorate. He stressed that democracy should prioritize qualifications over ethnicity or religion, stating, “Let everybody run, that’s democracy.” Momodu pointed to global examples where age and experience were valued over identity politics, asserting that Nigeria remains underdeveloped because it hasn’t moved beyond tribal divisions.
Reiterating his preference for Atiku Abubakar, Momodu noted his support is based on “credentials” and resource management ability rather than geography, urging Nigerians to appreciate “good people” instead of sacrificing leadership quality on the “altar of greed” and nepotism.