Former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, has argued that Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, cannot become Nigeria’s president because he is a “regional champion.”

Speaking on the KAA Truths podcast, Melaye maintained that no politician with a strictly regional appeal can successfully lead Nigeria. He contrasted Obi with African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as a “nationalist.”

“Atiku is a nationalist. Obi is a regional champion. It may sound awkward, it may sound offensive, but Obi is a good man and my friend. I respect him, but no regional champion in this country will ever be president,” Melaye said.

He further cited the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo as an example, noting that despite his brilliance and leadership qualities, Awolowo’s regional identity limited his presidential ambitions.

“Awolowo, fantastic man, brilliant, cosmopolitan, leader par excellence. But he was a regional champion. He contested for the presidency and could only win convincingly in the Southwest,” Melaye added.

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