Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll find in this article:
- Dele Momodu’s allegations of coercion and harassment.
- The mass defection of Delta PDP leaders to the APC.
- Momodu’s warning to President Tinubu about trusting defectors.
- Concerns about the use of anti-corruption agencies for political gain.
- The implications for Nigeria’s political landscape.
Bombshell Claim: Okowa and PDP Leaders ‘Harassed’ into APC
Dele Momodu, a big name in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is stirring the pot! According to Momodu, the recent switch of former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, and other top PDP guns to the All Progressives Congress (APC) wasn’t a voluntary move. He claims they were pressured and harassed into it! This isn’t about party loyalty or a change of heart, he insists; it’s about survival in the cutthroat world of Nigerian politics.
The Great Delta PDP Exodus: What Really Happened?
Remember that mass exodus from the Delta PDP to the APC? Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his deputy Monday Onyeme, commissioners, and a whole host of important political figures all jumped ship. This happened after months of whispers and speculations. Momodu believes this pattern of defection shows something fishy was going on. “These defections aren’t about some newfound love for Tinubu or the APC,” Momodu declared. “They’re pure survival tactics. These politicians are preserving themselves under pressure, and not out of true allegiance.”
Momodu’s Warning to Tinubu: Don’t Trust Them!
Momodu has a stern warning for President Bola Tinubu. He advises Tinubu not to see these defections as a sign of his popularity or successful leadership. Instead, he says many of these defectors are acting out of fear – fear of threats, coercion, or even prosecution. “My advice to Asiwaju is simple: don’t trust these politicians,” Momodu stated emphatically. “If he thinks they’re joining him because they believe in him, he’s being seriously misled.”
EFCC and ICPC: Weapons of Political Intimidation?
This is where it gets really spicy! Momodu alleges that the APC is using powerful anti-corruption agencies, like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to bully opposition leaders into defecting. Imagine facing the full force of these agencies if you don’t play ball! According to a report by Premium Times, the EFCC has faced similar allegations in the past, raising concerns about its impartiality (Premium Times).
Okowa’s Cryptic Message Before Defection
Before making the switch, Okowa, who was also a former vice-presidential candidate for the PDP, gave his supporters a cryptic message in his local dialect. He assured them that his decision would be in their best interest and that they wouldn’t be led in the wrong direction. What did he really mean? Was he hinting at the pressure he was under?
Is Nigeria Sliding Towards Authoritarianism?
Momodu didn’t hold back, accusing the Tinubu administration of leaning towards authoritarianism. He described the political atmosphere as becoming increasingly oppressive and warned about the dangers of a “democratic dictatorship.” He reminded Tinubu of his own history as a pro-democracy advocate during the military era. Has Tinubu forgotten his roots?
The Big Picture: What Does This Mean for Nigeria?
These allegations raise serious questions about the state of Nigerian democracy. Are political decisions being made freely, or are they being forced upon individuals through intimidation and coercion? If Momodu’s claims are true, it could signal a worrying trend towards authoritarianism and a weakening of the opposition. Only time will tell how this all plays out.
Key Takeaways:
- Allegations of coercion by Dele Momodu regarding PDP defections.
- Warnings to President Tinubu about the motives of defectors.
- Concerns over the potential misuse of anti-corruption agencies.
- Questions raised about the health of Nigerian democracy.
About The Author
