Former senator and outspoken political figure, Dino Melaye, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing what he described as the party’s “lack of potency, direction, and internal democracy.” The announcement, which he made via a press statement and on social media, has stirred conversations across Nigeria’s political landscape.
Dino Melaye, who served as a senator representing Kogi West and was the PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate in Kogi State, said his decision to quit the party was not made lightly. He noted that the PDP had become “a shadow of itself” and failed to uphold the ideals it once claimed to champion. According to him, the party’s recent internal crises, lack of ideological clarity, and weak opposition stance have made it politically irrelevant.
He criticized the PDP for being unable to provide credible opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that Nigerians deserve a vibrant, focused alternative voice. “What we have today is a party that no longer inspires hope, courage, or confidence,” Melaye stated. “The PDP has become a breeding ground for personal interests rather than national interest.”
Melaye also expressed deep frustration with the party’s handling of its internal affairs. He claimed that factionalism, power struggles, and undemocratic practices had weakened the structure and unity of the PDP beyond repair. He said his attempt to push for reform within the party was met with resistance and betrayal, leaving him with no choice but to step aside.
The former senator’s resignation is viewed by many analysts as a major blow to the PDP, especially in Kogi State, where Melaye commands a strong grassroots following. His exit could influence party loyalty at the state level and possibly trigger further defections from within. It also raises questions about the PDP’s readiness for future elections and its ability to rebuild public trust.
Although Melaye did not disclose his next political move, there is speculation that he might either float a new political movement or align with a rising third force in the country’s political space. Others believe he could return to the APC or join the Labour Party, which gained significant traction during the last general elections. When pressed, he simply said, “Nigeria is in dire need of true leadership and I will continue to serve in whatever capacity necessary.”
Reactions to his resignation have been mixed. While some party members have accused him of abandoning the PDP for personal ambition, others praised him for being bold enough to speak truth to power. Social media has also been flooded with debates, with hashtags like #DinoMelaye trending across platforms.
As Dino Melaye steps into a new chapter of his political journey, his departure from the PDP may signal a deeper crisis within Nigeria’s opposition ranks. With elections in the horizon and a restless citizenry demanding change, the coming months will likely reveal the true impact of his decision on national politics.
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