I can defeat Tinubu in free, fair election – Dino Melaye
Former Kogi Lawmaker Melaye Vows to Challenge Tinubu in Upcoming Elections
Former Kogi lawmaker Senator Dino Melaye stated he could defeat President Bola Tinubu in a credible electoral process, emphasizing his commitment to unifying opposition candidates.
Melaye made his comments during an interview on the Mic On Podcast, hosted by Seun Okinbaloye. He criticized the current administration and expressed optimism about alternative candidates in the race. “Anyone among those interested in the presidency in ADC would do one million times better than Tinubu,” Melaye asserted.
When addressing his own electoral prospects, Melaye expressed confidence in his ability to prevail in a transparent election, declaring, “Let’s go on a free and fair election. I will beat him flat in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” However, he clarified that his immediate focus is not personal ambition but rather the necessity of a united opposition against the current government.
“My own for now is that we must send Tinubu away. Whoever emerges from consensus or from a primary, I will support,” he stated. Melaye also raised concerns about the President’s willingness to facilitate a credible electoral process, suggesting that Tinubu prefers to maintain control over governance. “He doesn’t want an election. He wants to be Kabiyesi. He wants to be Igwe,” he claimed.
On the topic of coalition talks, Melaye downplayed speculation regarding joint tickets, stating that the primary focus is the national interest. “We are only interested in rescuing this country,” he remarked.
Additionally, he voiced concerns about the influence of non-elected individuals on governance, specifically citing the activities of the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu. “My son will not interfere with governance. My son will not summon DGs of parastatals and agencies of government and ministers,” he noted, referencing comments made by Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka regarding Seyi Tinubu’s public presence.
Melaye reiterated that opposition figures are actively strategizing ahead of future elections, emphasizing the importance of unity in their efforts.
