Chief Dele Momodu, a chieftain of the Labour Party (LP) and founder of Ovation magazine, has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), pledging to work with like-minded Nigerians to rescue and reposition the country. The announcement was made yesterday in Benin City, Edo State.
Momodu said his decision to join the ADC was motivated not by personal political ambition, but by a desire to contribute to national renewal.
“Today, I stand before my leaders as I humbly reintegrate myself into the democratic process of my state,” he said.
Addressing questions about potential political contests, Momodu clarified: “Many people have asked whether I intend to contest for governor or senator, but I tell them clearly that my interest is to promote the welfare and aspirations of our people. My decision to pick up the party card today is only the beginning of a journey. My mission is to join hands with citizens of like minds to rescue, recover and reset Nigeria. Nigeria must be rescued from the drift towards a one-party state. This task requires the total commitment of the majority of Nigerians who refuse to be enslaved in their own country.”
The move was welcomed by Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, former Governor of Edo State and a leading figure in the ADC, who described Momodu’s defection as a milestone for both the party and the nation.
“Today is unique in the history of the ADC because it marks a significant milestone in our quest to reposition Nigeria,” Oyegun said. “Chief Momodu is one of the Nigerians who played a key role in keeping the military out of politics. Today, we find ourselves in another existential struggle that will determine the future of this country.”
Odigie-Oyegun praised Momodu for his integrity and professionalism, noting that his entry into the ADC reflects a commitment to principle over personal gain.
“He is not a typical politician. As a media professional, he has long held politicians accountable, and his decision to join us speaks volumes. These are the kind of people Nigeria urgently needs. The burden Nigerians have carried since independence has become unbearable, and we must all work together to redeem the country from this needless hardship,” he said.
Momodu’s defection is expected to strengthen the ADC’s profile in Edo State and signals the party’s growing appeal to figures committed to reform, integrity, and national development.
