During an interview on Channels Television, Former presidential aspirant Dele Momodu said he believes speaking honestly to leaders is more important than praising them excessively, particularly in Nigeria’s political environment.
Momodu made the remark while discussing opposition politics and leadership accountability, referring to his relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He cautioned against flattering political leaders in ways that could make them disconnected from reality or immune to criticism.
According to him, “Let’s not be rubbing the head of our leaders and make their head swell like garri Ijebu.”
Momodu added that he prefers to speak openly about issues affecting the country rather than tell leaders only what they want to hear. He expressed confidence that, with time, Tinubu would recognize those who offered sincere advice.
He said, “Look, when tomorrow comes, Tinubu will remember that he had a friend in Dele Momodu who told him the truth when everybody was telling him lies.”