Abati, Oseni Clash With Dele Momodu Over Atiku’s Anti-Zoning Stance

Prominent media personalities Dr. Reuben Abati and Rufai Oseni have openly faulted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his recent comments describing the zoning of the 2027 presidential ticket to the South as "self-defeating." However, veteran journalist and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Dele Momodu, has strongly disagreed with their position, leaping to the defense of the former Vice President.

The debate sparked off during Arise TV's The Morning Show, where Abati and Oseni analyzed Atiku's statement. The duo argued that Atiku's continuous opposition to zoning undermines national unity, inclusivity, and the foundational gentlemen's agreement that balances power between the North and South in Nigeria. They contended that sticking strictly to merit without geographic balance ignores Nigeria's fragile political realities and diversity, implying that Atiku's stance appears self-serving given his perennial presidential ambitions.

Stepping in to defend Atiku, Dele Momodu counter-argued that zoning is an outdated concept championed primarily by politicians who lack national appeal. Momodu insisted that democracy should be about competence and the capacity to deliver good governance rather than where a candidate comes from. He emphasized that forcing regional zoning structures limits the choices available to political parties and the electorate, echoing Atiku's sentiment that restricting tickets geographically could lead to strategic political defeat.

While one faction believes power must return to the North to challenge the current administration effectively, others maintain that bypassing the South will create severe internal friction and alienate a major voting bloc.

What are your thoughts on this debate? Do you agree with Abati and Oseni that zoning is necessary for balance, or do you stand with Dele Momodu and Atiku? Please drop your comments below!

Share to: