Former Kogi West Senator Dino Melaye has criticised former Anambra State governor Peter Obi’s presidential ambition, arguing that Obi’s political influence remains largely regional ahead of the 2027 general election.
Melaye made the comments while appearing on the KAA Truths podcast, where he discussed Nigeria’s political landscape and the prospects of opposition figures ahead of the next presidential contest.
According to Melaye, Obi is a “regional champion” whose political appeal, in his assessment, is not broad enough to secure the Nigerian presidency.
“Atiku is a nationalist. Obi is a regional champion. It may sound awkward. It may sound offensive, but Obi is a good man and he’s my friend. I have respect for him, but he’s a regional champion and no regional champion in this country will ever be president,” Melaye said.
He contrasted Obi with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as a nationalist capable of appealing to voters across different parts of the country.
Melaye also referenced the late Obafemi Awolowo, arguing that his regional political identity limited his ability to win the presidency despite his reputation as an accomplished leader.
The comments have generated debate because Obi’s supporters dispute the suggestion that his political support is confined to the South-East. They have pointed to his performance in parts of the South-West, North-Central and the Federal Capital Territory during the 2023 presidential election as evidence of a broader political base.
The controversy is significant as Nigeria’s political parties and potential candidates begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 presidential election. National spread and the ability to build alliances across ethnic, religious and regional lines are expected to remain central issues in the race.
Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, has remained a prominent figure in Nigeria’s opposition politics. His supporters have continued to campaign for his emergence as a leading alternative to the established political parties.
Melaye, meanwhile, is now aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and has expressed support for Atiku’s presidential candidacy.
As political realignments continue ahead of 2027, the debate over Obi’s national appeal is likely to remain part of the wider conversation about who can build the coalition required to win Nigeria’s presidency.
