By Seyi Odewale
The Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu 2027 Forum (NDI-ABAT) has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to arrest and investigate former Kogi West Senator Dino Melaye over his comment that “Venezuela will happen in Nigeria,” warning that the statement could have serious implications for national security and sovereignty.
Melaye, in a post on his verified X handle on Wednesday, said, “What happened in Venezuela will happen in Nigeria,” while commenting on the country’s political situation and calling for President Bola Tinubu to leave office after the 2027 election. The comment has since triggered political controversy.
NDI-ABAT described the remark as provocative and irresponsible, arguing that it could heighten political tension and be interpreted as an invitation or encouragement for foreign intervention in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
The group, in a statement on Thursday by its National Coordinator, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dimm Uchechukwu Okwukwu, said Nigeria was a sovereign nation governed by constitutional institutions and the rule of law.
It stressed that political disagreements and criticism of government policies remained legitimate within a democracy.
It, however, argued that any statement that appeared to suggest, encourage or welcome external intervention in Nigeria’s affairs should be subjected to scrutiny by the appropriate authorities.
NDI-ABAT therefore called on the Federal Government and security agencies to “arrest Senator Dino Melaye immediately” and investigate the circumstances, intent and implications of the statement.
It said appropriate legal action should be taken if the investigation established that Melaye had breached any Nigerian law.
The group maintained that opposition activities and criticism of elected officials were legitimate components of democracy but must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of respect for national unity, constitutional order and Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The forum said Nigeria’s democratic future could not be determined by inflammatory remarks, political provocation or external pressure, insisting that Nigerians should decide the 2027 presidential election through the ballot box.
NDI-ABAT also expressed confidence that President Tinubu would win the 2027 presidential election, citing what it described as his achievements in infrastructure, security, accountability and the fight against corruption.
The group urged political actors and other stakeholders to prioritise peace, responsible political engagement and respect for Nigeria’s constitutional processes.
