A political group, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu 2027 Forum, has demanded the arrest of former Kogi West senator, Dino Melaye, over his comment that “Venezuela will happen in Nigeria.”
The group called on the Federal Government and security agencies to investigate Melaye, 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 political situation in the country and calling on 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 the country’s internal affairs.
The group, in a statement on Thursday by its National Coordinator, Mazi Isiguzoro, and Chairman of its Board of Trustees, Dimm Okwukwu, said the country 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 the country’s democratic future could not be determined by inflammatory remarks, political provocation or external pressure, insisting that the 2027 presidential election should be decided by Nigerians through the ballot box.