Long-time publisher and politician Dele Momodu has given President Bola Tinubu some straightforward advice: if you want Nigerians to vote for you again, show them what you’ve accomplished, don’t just rely on your position of power.
Momodu, who has known Tinubu personally for over three decades, made it clear that his criticism comes from a place of genuine friendship, not political rivalry.
The two men grew particularly close during their shared exile from 1995 to 1998, a bond that has lasted through the years.
In a candid social media post, Momodu acknowledged Tinubu’s impressive track record in Lagos, where he served as governor for eight years and has maintained significant influence for the past 26 years.
But he warned that running Nigeria requires a completely different playbook.
“I’ve been very close to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for over 32 years,” Momodu explained. “We became closer in exile from 1995 to 1998.
After we returned to Nigeria, he became Lagos Governor for eight years and has held sway over the state for the last 26 years.”
Rather than becoming another yes-man in Tinubu’s circle, Momodu chose to build his own independent career and reputation. This distance, he believes, gives him the freedom to speak honestly.
“I have nothing personal against the President, but a true friend should be able to tell him he cannot hold Nigeria by the jugular like he did in Lagos,” he wrote.
“He should sell his achievements to deserve a second term — not rely on federal might. It is that simple.”
