Fani-Kayode and Momodu Feud Over Tinubu Criticism

A heated public feud has erupted between Nigerian ambassador-designate Femi Fani-Kayode and Ovation Magazine publisher Dele Momodu, triggered by Momodu's criticism of President Bola Tinubu's governance style. The exchange, unfolding on social media and in public statements on Thursday, featured personal insults and accusations of ingratitude, underscoring tensions among prominent figures in Nigeria's political landscape.

The dispute began during Momodu's appearance on Channels Television, where the African Democratic Congress chieftain and former presidential candidate compared Tinubu's leadership to the dictatorship of the late military head of state, General Sani Abacha. Momodu, who ran unsuccessfully for president in 2013, described the administration's approach as authoritarian.

Fani-Kayode, a former aviation minister and vocal supporter of Tinubu, responded sharply in a statement, labeling Momodu's remarks misguided, uncharitable, and indicative of cognitive dissonance. He urged Momodu to cease his criticisms, claiming that Tinubu had provided financial and residential support to the publisher for nearly 40 years. "Unlike Dele, I did not benefit from him [Tinubu] for close...