Dele Momodu, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has criticized former presidential aide and Director-General of the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential campaign, Doyin Okupe, for his perceived inconsistency in party loyalty over the years.
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In a heated exchange on X (formerly Twitter), Momodu expressed his frustration with Okupe’s frequent party switches, describing his loyalty as a “flip-flop.”
He directly addressed Okupe, stating, “My dear Egbon, Dr. Doyin Okupe, I’m more amazed at your flip-flops, Sir. You’re Reno’s senior in engaging in sophistry since your days as Obasanjo’s Spokesman in 1999, till you fell out. You’ve defended almost all governments since then with your eloquence. What has Nigeria gained!”
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Momodu highlighted his own consistent opposition stance over the past 42 years, admitting his regret for briefly supporting President Buhari in 2015 before quickly withdrawing support due to what he perceived as a lack of direction.
He recalled a bet with Okupe during the Jonathan administration, where Okupe confidently claimed that Jonathan could not be defeated in an election.
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Momodu asserted that he won the $20,000 bet but later forgave Okupe’s debt.
Momodu further criticized Okupe’s recent support for President Bola Tinubu, despite acknowledging Okupe’s brilliance.
He accused Okupe of defending a government with “untenable economic hocus pocus” and stated, “With advisers like you, no government can succeed.”
Responding, Okupe advised Momodu to stick to facts rather than sentiments.
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He clarified his political history, noting his advisory roles in the administrations of Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.
Okupe defended the achievements of the Jonathan administration, particularly its economic progress, and argued that Jonathan’s defeat was due to factors beyond economic performance.
Okupe dismissed Momodu’s criticism of his political associations with Bukola Saraki, Peter Obi, and his support for Tinubu’s economic policies, labeling them as mischief.
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He explained his support for Tinubu’s reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and forex market equalization, which he believes will ultimately benefit Nigerians despite causing temporary hardships.
Okupe concluded by acknowledging Momodu’s past generosity in forgiving the $20,000 debt and called for rational, mature, and professional criticisms.
He emphasized his commitment to supporting the Nigerian government’s efforts for the country’s betterment, irrespective of his non-membership in the APC.
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