A public spat has erupted between media entrepreneur Dele Momodu and former aviation minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, with both men exchanging sharply worded statements that underscore deep personal and political tensions.
In his initial salvo, Momodu questioned Fani-Kayode’s temperament and suitability for high office, describing him as “a classic case of a wasted investment” who, despite elite opportunities, “turned out to be an outright and incurable thug.”
Referencing his educational background, Momodu noted that Fani-Kayode “went to Cambridge University… but became an enfant terrible, fighting anyone and anything… in sight,” adding that “all supplications and intercessions by friends and family… have failed to cure his strange malady.”
Momodu also expressed concern over a possible diplomatic role, stating: “This is the man President Bola Tinubu is about to unleash on Germany as an Ambassador… for God’s sake.” He argued that rather than preparing for such responsibility, Fani-Kayode was “still busy fighting, like a pig, instead of seeking urgent rehabilitation into the comity of sane human beings.”
He further revealed prior political conversations, claiming: “He was already working on Plan B… begging a few of us to help him reach out to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar… if all hopes evaporate,” and concluded that “Femi without power is like a fish out of water.”
Fani-Kayode responded with equal intensity, dismissing Momodu’s remarks as baseless and laced with personal bitterness.
He opened by stating that Momodu “has got his knickers in a twist yet again… [and is] clearly tormented,” before adding: “There is nothing worse than watching a man who comes from a lineage of touts and pimps blowing his gasket.”
Rejecting claims about his political moves, Fani-Kayode said: “He… claims that I wanted to work with Atiku even though I left PDP in 2021,” insisting the allegation was false.
He also disputed Momodu’s reference to his family, asserting: “My father never knew you… And no one ever knew your father. That is how inconsequential you and yours are to Nigeria’s history.”
Defending his own record, Fani-Kayode argued: “I was born into the corridors of power… and have remained relevant and active in the power configuration of our country for over 30 years.”
He contrasted this with Momodu’s career, claiming: “You followed Chief MKO Abiola around like a court jester… You ran for President… and got only one vote.”
On the broader political landscape, he maintained that criticism would not alter outcomes, declaring: “President Tinubu WILL return to office and be re-elected in 2027. Nothing you say or do… can change that.”
Fani-Kayode concluded by dismissing the attacks, stating: “Insult me as much as you like: it is like water off a duck’s back to me… I have been called to serve my country once again, and that is where my focus lies.”
The exchange highlights not only personal animosity but also deeper divisions within Nigeria’s political elite, particularly around questions of influence, legacy, and alignment ahead of future electoral contests.
