By Our Correspondent

National News – Veteran journalist and publisher of Dele Momodu has revealed how he escaped Nigeria through the Seme border during the military regime of Sani Abacha.

Speaking during an interview on the Morayo Show, Momodu recounted the emotional and dangerous journey that forced him into exile between 1995 and 1998 because of his pro-democracy activities and support for MKO Abiola.

Momodu explained that he fled Nigeria on July 22, 1995, after reports emerged that security operatives were searching for him over alleged links to Radio Freedom, a station later known as Radio Kudirat.

According to him, he left his wife and infant son behind and crossed the Seme border into Cotonou on foot in the early hours of the morning.

The media entrepreneur said the moment remains one of the most painful experiences of his life.

He disclosed that he broke down in tears while looking at his young son before leaving home.

He also became emotional again after arriving in Benin Republic because he was uncertain about his future, survival, and possible return to Nigeria.

Momodu stated that the exile journey eventually changed his life and career.

He noted that if he had not fled Nigeria during the military crackdown, there would have been no Ovation International magazine today.

While abroad, he travelled through Togo and Ghana before settling in the United Kingdom, where he joined other NADECO activists, including Bola Tinubu, in campaigns against military rule.

The former presidential aspirant also said his commitment to democracy remains strong despite political differences with former allies.

Momodu, an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, added that his early struggles, including losing his father at age 13, shaped his determination to succeed in life and public service.