Veteran journalist and media entrepreneur Dele Momodu has responded to former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi following claims that he insulted him during recent political discussions involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Momodu issued the clarification in a post on 𝕏, formerly known as Twitter, where he maintained that his earlier remarks were not intended as an attack on Amaechi but rather as friendly advice.
The exchange followed comments made by Amaechi during an interview in which he criticised Atiku over his reported stance on zoning within the opposition political space. Amaechi had also expressed confidence that he would secure the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), dismissing suggestions of a consensus arrangement.
Reacting during an appearance on Channels Television, Momodu urged the former Rivers State governor to moderate his tone while addressing political rivals and allies.
“Mr. Amaechi, in the name of the almighty God, should please cool his temper,” Momodu said during the interview.
“A potential presidential candidate and possible president of Nigeria must watch his temper and temperament and doesn’t need to attack Atiku,” he added.
The comments reportedly drew criticism from some of Amaechi’s supporters, who interpreted the remarks as disrespectful toward the former minister.
In response, Momodu took to social media to explain his position and reaffirm his relationship with Amaechi. Accompanying his post with photographs of both men, he stated that he never intended to insult him.
“My dear friend and brother, The Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, I did not abuse you, please,” Momodu wrote.
“I only pleaded with you not to insult Atiku, a perfect gentleman who, despite the age gap, continues to respect all of us,” he added.
Momodu further described Amaechi as a longtime friend and said his comments were made candidly in the spirit of honest political dialogue.
“You know I’m as frank as you are and only spoke candidly the way true friends must speak to each other. Love and respect always,” he wrote.
The disagreement comes amid growing political activities and discussions within opposition circles ahead of future elections. Atiku Abubakar, Amaechi, and other prominent politicians have continued to feature in conversations surrounding possible alliances and leadership contests within opposition movements.
Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State and former APC presidential aspirant, has recently been vocal about internal political issues, including zoning, opposition unity, and leadership direction. His comments have generated reactions across party lines and among political observers.
Atiku, who served as Nigeria’s vice president between 1999 and 2007, remains one of the country’s most influential opposition figures and has contested for the presidency multiple times. Discussions around zoning and presidential power rotation continue to shape debates within major political parties and coalition movements.
Political analysts say the exchange between Momodu and Amaechi highlights tensions and differing opinions among opposition figures as preparations for future electoral contests gradually intensify. However, observers also noted that Momodu’s latest statement appeared aimed at easing tensions and preserving political relationships.
The conversation has attracted attention on social media, where supporters of both men debated the remarks and broader issues concerning political leadership, temperament, and opposition strategy.
Despite the disagreement, Momodu’s message suggested a willingness to maintain cordial ties with Amaechi while continuing to advocate respectful political engagement among opposition leaders.
