2027: Melaye Accuses Tinubu of Fueling Political Violence Through Public Remarks

Melaye made the allegation during an interview with DCL on Tuesday, November 10, while reacting to the President’s reported comments that “all is fair in politics” and “take it, grab it, and run away with it.”

The former lawmaker argued that such remarks could be interpreted as an endorsement of electoral malpractice and undemocratic political practices.

He questioned the implications of the President’s comments, insisting that describing all political tactics as acceptable could encourage individuals to engage in election-related misconduct.

“What you are saying is that rigging is fair politics. No, that is exactly what he said. When you say ‘all’, there is no exclusion. We are all English students: all, all, subordinate, adjectival clause, all,” Melaye said.

He further questioned Tinubu’s democratic credentials, alleging that the President’s rhetoric had contributed to hostility within the country’s political environment.

“Which democrat talks like that? So he’s the one who ignited violence in our politics,” he added.

Melaye also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of encouraging attacks against opposition figures across the country.

Citing reported incidents involving APC chieftain Adams Oshiomhole in Ekiti State, Labour Party’s Peter Obi in Benue State and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar in Kebbi State, he argued that political rhetoric from those in power could worsen tensions among supporters.

He specifically alleged that gunmen attacked vehicles in Atiku’s convoy in Kebbi, claiming that six vehicles were shot at and some people sustained gunshot injuries.

“That’s why Atiku’s car was shot at in Kebbi. That’s why six vehicles were shot at in Kebbi. That’s why we have people with gun wounds, because the President has made pronouncements that ignite violence,” he alleged.

The ADC chieftain warned that Nigeria’s unity should not be taken for granted, drawing comparisons with countries that had experienced disintegration and prolonged conflicts.

He mentioned the former Yugoslavia, Bosnia, Somalia and Sudan, as well as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, as examples of nations that had faced serious political and territorial crises.

Melaye expressed concern about the consequences of a major breakdown of peace in Nigeria, noting that the country’s large population could make the humanitarian impact particularly difficult to manage.

“My pain is that with an estimated 250 million people, no country in the world can take our refugees. So Tinubu will have to be very, very careful,” he said.

He urged the President to demonstrate statesmanship and prioritise national unity, recalling advice by former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, that Tinubu should rise above partisan interests.

“I adhere to the advice of Professor Jerry Gana, that he should not just be a president; he should be a statesman,” Melaye added.

When asked whether his criticism amounted to a call for Tinubu to abandon his 2027 re-election ambition, Melaye clarified that he was not asking the President to withdraw from the race.

However, he argued that anyone seeking the presidency must meet the constitutional requirements relating to physical and mental fitness.

Melaye alleged that Tinubu did not meet those requirements and challenged the President to make himself available for an independent medical examination to address the claims.

The former senator’s allegations come amid growing political tension and exchanges between the ruling party and opposition figures as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify.