A former lawmaker representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye, has declared that President Bola Tinubu could be defeated in a credible electoral contest, insisting he possesses the capacity to unseat the incumbent if he decides to run.
Melaye, however, stressed that his immediate priority is to rally support for any consensus candidate that may emerge from an opposition coalition platform, rather than pursuing personal ambition.
Speaking during an interview on Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, the former senator delivered a scathing assessment of the current administration, arguing that alternative candidates would outperform the President if given the opportunity.
According to him, “anybody among those interested in the presidency under the ADC would do far better than Tinubu,” adding that none could perform worse than the present government.
Expressing confidence in his own electoral strength, Melaye declared that he could secure victory in a transparent process.
“I will defeat him in a free and fair election,” he said, maintaining that the outcome would be decisive if the process is credible.
Despite his bold claim, the politician noted that his focus remains on dislodging the ruling government through a united opposition front.
“For now, the goal is to remove Tinubu. Whoever emerges, whether by consensus or primary, will have my support,” he stated.
Melaye also raised concerns over the integrity of future elections, alleging that the President might not favour a level playing field.
“He should allow a free and fair contest. If not, Nigerians will insist on one,” he added.
On internal coalition arrangements, he dismissed speculations about joint tickets, saying discussions are centred on national interest rather than political permutations.
“We are not concerned about joint or non-joint tickets; our interest is in rescuing the country,” he said.
The former lawmaker further criticised what he described as the growing influence of non-elected individuals in governance, particularly referencing the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu.
“My son will not interfere in governance or summon heads of agencies,” Melaye said, alleging undue involvement in public affairs.
He also cited remarks by Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka, while questioning the activities linked to the “City Boy Movement,” which he claimed reflect increasing political interference outside constitutional structures.
Melaye concluded that opposition figures are already intensifying consultations ahead of future elections, emphasising that unity remains critical to challenging the current administration.