Dele Momodu Reacts to Okowa’s Alleged APC Move: “What Will Surprise Me Is If Tinubu Thinks They Love Him”

Veteran journalist and political figure Dele Momodu has weighed in on swirling reports of former Delta State Governor and PDP stalwart, Ifeanyi Okowa, potentially defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying he is not surprised by the move but cautions against misreading the motivations behind such political shifts.

In a strongly worded statement, Momodu said:

“When you talk about our leader Okowa joining APC, I am not surprised. He has been under serious harassment in recent times… What will surprise me is when President Tinubu thinks people are joining the APC because they love him.”

Momodu’s comment suggests that mounting pressure, rather than ideological alignment or loyalty, may be driving high-profile defections to the ruling party. His words come amid increasing concerns about political intimidation and the shrinking space for opposition voices under the current administration.

While Okowa has not officially confirmed a defection, rumors have intensified following a wave of defections in Delta State — including that of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori — and wider discontent within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to Momodu, these moves are often less about political conviction and more about survival under pressure.

His remarks also serve as a pointed critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's leadership style and the APC's growing influence, which many believe is being reinforced through political pressure rather than genuine support.

The statement has sparked wide debate online and in political circles. Supporters have praised Momodu for speaking truth to power, while others accuse him of fueling division. Some commentators argue that his statement highlights a dangerous trend where Nigeria’s democracy is becoming more about political alignment than performance or ideology.

So far, the APC has not officially responded to Momodu’s comments, nor has the presidency issued a statement.

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, comments like these reflect the simmering tension within the nation’s political landscape — and the widening gap between public perception and political power.