PDP Primaries: Dele Momodu Reveals How a Particular Presidential Candidate Shared $30,000 Per Delegate

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Dele Momodu, renowned publisher of Ovation Magazine and a prominent member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has alleged that during the party’s 2022 presidential primary, one aspirant distributed $30,000 to each of the 774 delegates. Momodu shared this during his appearance on the "Key to Keys" podcast, where he lamented the overwhelming role money played in the primaries.

Momodu revealed that he spent nearly N50 million to purchase the PDP presidential nomination form, a decision he now deeply regrets. "The process was completely monetized," he said, describing the experience as disheartening. "Not even a single vote was cast for me because everything revolved around financial inducement."

Monetization of Nigerian Politics

Highlighting the stark realities of Nigeria’s political landscape, Momodu noted that the use of money to secure votes has reached alarming levels. "One candidate went as far as offering $30,000 per delegate," he explained. "With 774 delegates, the figures are staggering."

Momodu criticized the trend, asserting that it undermines democracy and gives undue advantage to those who have amassed illicit wealth. "This is why they insult Nigerians," he remarked, "because of the sheer volume of raw cash at their disposal, often untraceable and stored outside the banking system."

He further lamented the dominance of "principalities" in Nigeria’s political structure, stating that without a consensus nomination from a major political party, contesting the presidency would remain futile for well-meaning individuals lacking vast financial resources.

Calls for Electoral Reforms

The PDP stalwart advocated for immediate reforms to curb vote-buying and other corrupt practices in elections. "Democracy should be about the will of the people, not the wealth of candidates," Momodu emphasized. He urged political parties, the electorate, and civil society organizations to collaborate in creating a fair and transparent electoral system.

Momodu also suggested revisiting the delegate system to reduce its susceptibility to financial inducement. "Delegates are meant to represent the people’s interest, but when money takes center stage, the essence of their role is compromised," he argued.

A Vision for Transparent Leadership

As Nigeria gears up for future elections, Momodu stressed the need for leaders chosen based on competence and vision rather than financial muscle. "Our country deserves leaders who prioritize the common good over personal gain," he said. 

Concluding his remarks, Momodu reiterated the urgency of combating the corrosive effects of money politics. "It’s time to restore integrity to our electoral process and ensure that leadership positions are occupied by those who genuinely care about Nigeria’s progress."

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