Former Kogi West Senator Dino Melaye has described Peter Obi as a “fantastic Nigerian,” but insisted that he does not believe the former presidential candidate can become Nigeria’s president.
Melaye made the remarks during an appearance on Politics Today on Channels Television on Thursday, where he argued that Obi lacks the capacity required to unite the country.
Obi, who was the presidential candidate of the Labour Party Nigeria in the 2023 general election, has repeatedly indicated his intention to run again in the 2027 presidential contest.
Despite acknowledging Obi’s personal qualities, Melaye said the political moment does not favour him becoming president.
“But let me even tell you, Peter Obi is a fantastic Nigerian. I have tremendous respect for him, and I’ve said it before, he is a fantastic person, but this is not his time to be President,” Melaye said.
Melaye, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, also recently attempted a return to elective office after leaving the National Assembly.
He contested the governorship election in Kogi State under the PDP platform but was defeated by the incumbent governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo.
What you should know
Peter Obi rose to national prominence during the 2023 presidential election, where he ran under the Labour Party Nigeria and attracted a large youth-driven political movement popularly known as the “Obidient” movement.
Although he did not win the election, Obi has continued to maintain strong political influence and has repeatedly signaled his interest in contesting the presidency again in 2027.
