Former Kogi West Senator Dino Melaye has criticised Peter Obi’s presidential prospects, describing the former Anambra State governor as a “regional champion” and arguing that no politician perceived primarily as a regional figure can become Nigeria’s president.
Melaye made the remarks while discussing Obi’s political ambitions ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The former senator argued that Nigeria’s presidency requires a candidate with broad national appeal rather than one whose political influence is concentrated in a particular region.
His comments come as opposition politicians continue to position themselves ahead of the 2027 election, with discussions around coalition-building, party structures and the selection of a candidate capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, remains a major figure in Nigeria’s opposition politics.
Melaye’s assessment, however, reflects the growing debate among opposition figures over the political strength and national reach of potential presidential contenders.
The 2027 contest is already generating intense political realignments, with several major political figures positioning themselves ahead of the election.