Dele Momodu urges opposition unity around Atiku to rescue Nigeria

A week-long celebration marking the birthday of former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, concluded on Wednesday with a high-profile lecture urging opposition leaders to forge a united front to rescue the country from its current leadership crises.

The keynote address, delivered by Chief Dele Momodu, a renowned journalist and entrepreneur, was the highlight of this year’s Atiku Week of Service organized by the Atiku Foundation. Speaking before a distinguished audience in Jada, Momodu traced Atiku’s long-standing contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey and highlighted his unique qualities as a statesman capable of steering the nation toward stability and progress.

“During the 1993 SDP primary, Atiku stepped down for my adopted father, Chief MKO Abiola. This made him win the ticket,” Momodu recalled. “Even when Abiola failed to reward him with the vice-presidential slot and instead picked Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, Atiku did not bring down the roof or destroy the party. That virtue of equanimity is rare among Nigerian politicians.”

Momodu described Atiku as “not a common politician” and a man “betrayed many times but always choosing peace and patience.” He emphasized that unlike many political figures in Nigeria, Atiku does not parade thugs or resort to violence in pursuit of his political ambitions. “Little wonder God has given him excellent health in addition to success in businesses,” Momodu added, noting that Atiku pursues his ambition with clarity and integrity.

The Ovation publisher also highlighted Atiku’s contributions to the rule of law, citing his landmark cases that enriched Nigeria’s jurisprudence and strengthened democratic governance. Momodu recalled how, during years of military rule, Atiku consistently spoke out against misgovernance and injustice when others chose silence. “When we refuse to encourage good people, the worst amongst us thrive,” he stated, underscoring Atiku’s resilience and moral leadership.

According to Momodu, Nigeria’s current leadership challenges require a capable and experienced manager of men and resources, a role for which Atiku is uniquely prepared. He called on Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, along with all leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, to join forces with Atiku to steer the country toward a better future.

The lecture attracted prominent political figures who paid glowing tributes to the Waziri Adamawa. Among them were former Adamawa Governor Sen. Bindow Jibrilla, Sen. Ahmed Hassan Barata, Sen. Aishatu Dahiru Binani, and Sen. Abdul’aziz Nyako.

Senator Binani described Atiku as “the leader of Northern politics and an inspiration to the youth, having ventured into politics from his school days.” Sen. Nyako praised Atiku’s leadership, saying, “You are a great man. The closer I get to you, the more I discover how great you are. I look forward to knowing you more.”

Senator Abbo lauded Atiku as a bridge-builder and unifier, a politician who raises leaders without regard for ethnic or religious affiliations. He cited several examples, including Atiku’s insistence that Boni Haruna, a Christian, be appointed Governor of Adamawa after the 1999 elections, even though Atiku became Vice President under President Olusegun Obasanjo. Abbo also highlighted Atiku’s support for Sen. Bindow Jibrilla in 2015 and Ahmadu Fintiri in 2019 and 2023, emphasizing that all were non-Fulani. However, Abbo expressed disappointment that Governor Fintiri allegedly barred Adamawa State government officials from attending official events honoring the Waziri.

The Atiku Week of Service, now in its third edition, is organized by the Atiku Foundation and funded by the Abubakar family. Professor Ahmed Shehu, Secretary of the Foundation, said this year’s edition marked an improvement over previous events while maintaining the core objectives: to give back to society and provide meaningful opportunities for community development.

A key highlight of the week-long program is the Education Day, which this year awarded scholarships to six students from public schools within Toungo, Adamawa State. The beneficiaries—Halita Raymond, Bashir Husseini, Milta Miletus, Isua Adamu, Swabadiso Ayuba, and Mainuna Ahmed—will receive educational support from the Atiku Abubakar Foundation (AAF).

Another notable event is the Atiku Unity Cup, a flagship sports initiative that fosters community cohesion and identifies young talents. Over the years, the Unity Cup has become a symbol of national unity and youth engagement, reflecting the broader objectives of the Atiku Foundation.

Atiku, who was visibly pleased with this year’s celebrations, used the occasion to express gratitude to his children, the Foundation staff, and particularly Chief Dele Momodu for his contributions to the event. He emphasized that initiatives like the Atiku Week of Service serve to reinforce community development, promote education, and inspire young Nigerians to pursue excellence.

Speaking on the future of Nigeria, Momodu stressed that the nation urgently needs principled leadership capable of bridging divides, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring that democracy serves all citizens. “Atiku is not only a seasoned politician but also a visionary leader who understands the complexities of governance in Nigeria,” he said.

The call for unity around Atiku resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom hailed the former Vice President as a figure capable of restoring confidence in Nigeria’s political system. With rising concerns over governance, economic challenges, and security issues, stakeholders at the lecture agreed that collaboration among opposition leaders is critical to fostering national stability.

The Atiku Week of Service continues to grow in impact, with the Foundation reporting that initiatives under the program have reached widows, orphans, and other vulnerable groups, creating tangible improvements in the lives of community members. By linking service, education, and sports, the program aims to build sustainable foundations for youth empowerment and societal progress.

As the celebrations drew to a close, Chief Dele Momodu’s address left a clear message: the time has come for opposition leaders to set aside differences and unite behind capable, principled leadership. With Atiku Abubakar positioned as a unifying figure, the hope is that Nigeria can chart a new course toward stability, development, and inclusive governance.