Former Kogi State senator Dino Melaye has explained why he believes Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi may struggle to become Nigeria’s president, describing him as a “regional champion” rather than a nationalist.
Melaye made the remarks while contrasting Obi with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as a nationalist with broader political reach across Nigeria.
According to Melaye, Obi is a good man and someone he considers a friend, but his political support base remains largely regional.
“Atiku Abubakar is a nationalist. Obi is a regional champion. It may sound awkward. It may sound offensive. Obi is a good man. He’s my friend. I have respect for him. But he’s a regional champion,” Melaye said.
He argued that no politician perceived as a regional champion could successfully win the Nigerian presidency, stressing that presidential candidates need nationwide appeal and support.
Melaye also cited the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo as an example, describing him as a brilliant and cosmopolitan leader but arguing that his political influence remained strongest in the Southwest.
“Awolowo, fantastic man. Brilliant, exquisite, cosmopolitan, leader par excellence. But was a regional champion,” he said.
Melaye maintained that Awolowo’s inability to secure widespread electoral support beyond the Southwest contributed to his failure to win the presidency.
