Former Kogi West Senator and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Dino Melaye, has accused President Bola Tinubu of making inflammatory statements that could encourage electoral malpractice and political violence ahead of the 2027 general elections. Melaye expressed concern over the increasingly hostile political atmosphere and the exchanges between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties. He made the allegations during an interview with DCL on Tuesday, November 10.
Melaye specifically mentioned the President's reported remarks that "all is fair in politics" and "take it, grab it, and run away with it," which he believes could be interpreted as an endorsement of electoral malpractice and other undemocratic practices. The former lawmaker argued that such statements left no room for excluding electoral malpractice, including rigging, from the political practices being described as acceptable. He questioned Tinubu's democratic credentials, accusing the President of contributing to the hostility in the country's political environment.
The ADC chieftain also accused the APC of encouraging attacks against opposition politicians, citing reported incidents involving prominent political figures in different parts of the country. He referenced incidents involving an APC chieftain and former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, in Ekiti State; Labour Party chieftain Peter Obi in Benue State; and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar in Kebbi State. Melaye specifically alleged that gunmen attacked vehicles in Atiku's convoy in Kebbi, claiming that six vehicles were shot at and that some people sustained gunshot injuries.
Melaye warned that Nigeria's unity should not be taken for granted, drawing attention to countries that had experienced disintegration, prolonged conflicts, and massive displacement of their populations. He cited the former Yugoslavia, Bosnia, Somalia, and Sudan, as well as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, as examples of the devastating consequences of political and territorial crises. The former senator expressed concern about the potential humanitarian consequences of a breakdown of peace in Nigeria.
Melaye emphasized that the country's estimated population of 250 million would make the displacement of large numbers of Nigerians particularly difficult for other countries to accommodate. He argued that the international community might struggle to absorb the number of refugees that could emerge from a major crisis in Nigeria. The ADC chieftain urged Tinubu to rise above partisan considerations and demonstrate statesmanship by prioritizing national unity and democratic stability.
Melaye also challenged Tinubu to undergo an independent medical examination over allegations concerning his physical and mental fitness. The former senator questioned Tinubu's fitness to occupy the presidency, alleging that the President did not meet the constitutional requirements for the office. He recalled advice reportedly given to the President by former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, urging him to embrace the broader responsibilities of national leadership.
The crisis between the APC and opposition parties continues to escalate, with many Nigerians calling for restraint and caution from political leaders. As the 2027 general elections approach, the country's political atmosphere remains tense, with many fearing the worst. Key points include:
Key points
- Melaye accuses Tinubu of fanning flames of violence through public statements.
- The ADC chieftain warns of a potential refugee crisis involving millions of Nigerians.
- Melaye challenges Tinubu to an independent medical examination over fitness allegations.
