Former senator Dino Melaye has taken aim at Peter Obi over his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), describing the move as an attempt to sidestep political challenges.
Obi, alongside his reported running mate Rabiu Kwankwaso, exited the ADC on Sunday amid ongoing internal disputes and legal battles within the party.
Their departure has since sparked a noticeable shift, with several members reportedly following them to the NDC.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Melaye questioned Obi’s ability to navigate difficult political terrain, suggesting that his exit from the ADC reflected an unwillingness to endure internal party struggles.
According to Melaye: “If he cannot withstand party crises, how does he plan to manage the far more complex challenges facing Nigeria? The country’s problems are far greater than what is happening in ADC.”
He went further to argue that Obi tends to avoid competitive political processes, claiming that the former presidential candidate has benefited from non-contested opportunities throughout his career.
Melaye alleged that Obi’s previous political advancements—including his governorship ticket under APGA, his vice-presidential candidacy alongside Atiku Abubakar, and his presidential bid under the Labour Party—were all secured without rigorous primary contests.
He also linked Obi’s past exits from parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ADC to an aversion to internal competition, claiming the move to the NDC was another attempt to secure a smoother path.
Also Read: Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour Reaffirms ADC Loyalty Amid Opposition Realignments
Melaye concluded by casting doubt on the independence of the NDC, alleging it operates in alignment with the ruling APC, though he provided no evidence to support the claim.