Veteran journalist and former presidential aspirant Dele Momodu has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying his return to partisan politics is driven by a desire to serve the collective interests of Nigerians and halt what he described as the country’s slide toward a one-party state.
Speaking at his membership declaration in Benin City on Thursday, Momodu described the move as both a personal and political homecoming, marking his reintegration into active politics after decades of professional life away from his ancestral roots.
“Officially, I am declaring for the African Democratic Congress,” he said. “It took me more than 30 years to discover my ancestral home, and today feels like a full circle in my life.”
He expressed gratitude to Senator Isa Raymond, whom he described as a father figure who supported him when he first returned home. “From the very first day he met me, he adopted me as a son and coordinated everything when I came home,” Momodu said.
Reflecting on his years abroad, Momodu said his experience in the United States gave him economic stability and perspective but did not diminish his connection to Nigeria.
“It took me over 50 years of hard work and careful planning to establish myself in the United States,” he said. “Today, I return fully reintegrated into the political process of my state and country.”
Momodu dismissed speculation that his move to the ADC was driven by personal ambition for elective office, stressing that his engagement was ideological rather than self-seeking.
“People ask me if I want to be governor or senator. No,” he said. “I simply want to promote the best interests of our people.”
He described his decision to pick up the ADC membership card as the first major step in a broader political journey, noting that the party represents a growing opposition coalition.
“My mission is to work with citizens of like minds to rescue, recover and reset Nigeria,” Momodu said. “Nigeria must not become a one-party state or a one-parliament country.”
He added that the success of the movement would depend on the commitment of Nigerians dissatisfied with the country’s current direction. “This journey will require the total commitment of citizens who refuse to be enslaved in their own land,” he said.
Momodu also paid tribute to ADC leaders and supporters, particularly party stalwart Zipzon Oyebu, whom he praised for his leadership and sacrifice.
“I am inspired by his judiciousness, courage and commitment to national wellbeing,” he said.
Thanking supporters who attended the event despite it holding on a weekday, Momodu said their presence underscored a shared resolve for political change.
“I do not take this show of support for granted,” he said, expressing confidence that the ADC leadership could “go down in history” for its role in reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
