Momodu: I’ll Back Tinubu Fully If He Upholds Democratic Values

 Publisher and former presidential candidate Dele Momodu has said he would give President Bola Tinubu his full support if the administration practises the democratic principles they fought for during Nigeria’s years of military rule.

Momodu made the remarks during an interview on Arise TV, stressing that his major concern was the possibility of replacing military dictatorship with civilian dictatorship.

He said he would go as far as “swim to the depth of the Atlantic Ocean” for Tinubu if the President remained committed to the democratic ideals that motivated their pro-democracy struggle.

Momodu Criticises Tinubu Selectively

Momodu said his criticism of Tinubu was not personal and that he continued to have considerable respect for the President.

He explained that he would not join those who insult Tinubu, noting that the President was among the people who influenced and mentored him during his political development.

According to Momodu, Tinubu helped instil in him the confidence to challenge established authority and fight for democratic principles.

He said Tinubu's political achievements in Lagos were also responsible for the reputation he eventually carried into national politics.

Their Relationship Dates Back to Pro-Democracy Struggle

Momodu and Tinubu have known each other for more than three decades, having both been involved in Nigeria's pro-democracy struggle during the military era.

Tinubu was a prominent figure in the campaign for the actualisation of the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate, while Momodu was also involved in the struggle and was later detained over his pro-democracy activities.

Both men eventually spent periods outside Nigeria during the military crackdown on pro-democracy activists.

Despite their longstanding relationship, Momodu has become an increasingly vocal critic of the Tinubu administration, particularly over its political and economic direction.

2027 Politics

Momodu's comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Although he has criticised aspects of Tinubu's administration, he maintained that his position was based on principles rather than personal hostility.

He argued that Nigeria's transition from military rule should ultimately result in stronger democratic institutions, accountability and respect for citizens' rights.

For Momodu, supporting Tinubu would therefore not be about personal loyalty, but about whether the President's administration remains faithful to the democratic ideals they once fought to establish.