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By Oscar Okhifo
Veteran journalist and ex-presidential candidate Chief Dele Momodu, is set to make a high-profile entry into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Thursday in Benin City, a move widely seen as reinforcing his longstanding support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The Edo State leadership of the ADC confirmed the planned declaration in a press statement issued by the party’s South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mabel Oboh, who the development as a major political milestone for Edo State, the South-South region and the country at large.
Momodu, a former presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is a veteran publisher, author and public affairs commentator with decades of experience in media practice and civic engagement.
According to the party, his decision to align with the ADC is expected to significantly boost its national profile and strengthen its progressive, people-centred political agenda.
A staunch supporter of Atiku Abubakar, Momodu has consistently backed the former Vice President’s presidential ambition, even without being formally registered with the party.
Political observers believe his official entry into the ADC could further galvanise internal advocacy for Atiku to secure the party’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.
The statement noted that Momodu’s defection reflects growing confidence in the ADC as a credible alternative platform capable of driving inclusive governance and democratic renewal across Nigeria.
“Chief Dele Momodu’s decision to align with the African Democratic Congress marks a strategic and welcome development,” the statement read.
“It reaffirms ADC’s commitment to progressive leadership, regional development, and empowering the people through politics.”
The party disclosed that several prominent national and state leaders are expected at the declaration ceremony. Among them are the ADC Edo National Leader and former APC National Chairman, as well as former Edo State Governor, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun; the ADC Edo State Chairman, Kennedy Odion; National Chief Whip, Elder Festus Igbinoba; National Legal Adviser, Oserheimen Osumbor; and Mabel Oboh, alongside other senior party officials.
Also expected to attend are notable political figures, including Senators Yisa Braimoh, Roland Owie and Ehigie Uzamere, as well as party delegates, stakeholders and supporters from within and outside Edo State.
The formal declaration ceremony is scheduled to hold on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 11:00 p.m., at the ADC Party Secretariat on Ogbelaka Street, Benin City.
Party leaders have urged ADC members, supporters and stakeholders to attend in large numbers, describing the event as a demonstration of unity and a reflection of the party’s growing influence in Edo State, the South-South region and across Nigeria.