Setting the Records Straight: Dino Melaye’s Critics Should First Examine Their Own Shadows
By Mohammed Kabir Abdullahi, Former Deputy Publicity Secretary, PDP, Kogi State
In response to the article titled “Enough of the Grandstanding, Senator Dino Melaye Must Be Held Accountable” credited to Hon. Oluwakayode Emmanuel Eseyin,
PDP Youth leader Kabba/Bunu local government Kogi State. It is imperative to address the gross misrepresentations, half-truths, and personal vendetta masquerading as political commentary.
Let me state from the onset that while internal criticism is healthy in any democratic setting, it must be rooted in facts, guided by decorum, and devoid of bitterness. Unfortunately, Hon. Eseyin’s piece was nothing more than an orchestrated character assassination driven by personal resentment and political opportunism.
1. On Party Loyalty and Integrity
It is ironic that Hon. Eseyin, who parades himself as the voice of the youth within the PDP, chose to malign one of the party’s most recognizable and vocal figures Senator Dino Melaye who has stood against tyranny and consistently spoken truth to power, even when it was inconvenient. If we are to audit loyalty to the PDP, Dino’s contributions far outweigh those of many opportunistic placeholders who disappear during crisis and reappear only to throw stones.
Senator Melaye has served this party in various capacities and was courageous enough to carry its flag during the most challenging governorship election in Kogi State’s recent history. Those who lacked the courage to contest, yet now act as saints, have no moral right to point fingers.
2. On the 2023 Kogi Governorship Election
It is outright falsehood to claim that Senator Melaye was absent during the election. He traversed all three senatorial districts of Kogi State, endured multiple threats, and ran a campaign without federal backing or state machinery, yet he represented the PDP with dignity.
The election was marred by widespread irregularities, voter suppression, and violence. Those blaming Melaye for the outcome are either dishonest or deliberately playing the script of the ruling party. If we must talk about absence, where were the so called youth leaders during the onslaught against democracy in that election?
3. On Accusations of Wealth and Religious Hypocrisy
Dragging Dino Melaye’s personal faith into a political discourse is not only tasteless but disgraceful. Using someone’s religious conviction as a tool of mockery is beneath the values we claim to uphold in the PDP. It betrays a desperate need to appeal to sentiments rather than address issues.
Regarding his lifestyle and wealth, no court of law has ever convicted Senator Melaye of corruption. Unlike some of his critics, he has made his career and records publicly known. If there are allegations, let due process prevail instead of character assassination through press statements.
4. To the Youths of Nigeria
Hon. Eseyin’s sermon to the youth would be more convincing if it wasn’t laced with envy and vendetta. Nigerian youths are not fools. They know those who stood up when it mattered and those who only find their voices after elections. Senator Dino Melaye is not perfect no politician is but he has consistently engaged the system, taken risks, and spoken boldly, even when it was dangerous to do so.
This is not the time for intra-party witch-hunting. Rather, it is a time for reflection, reform, and unity. Those seeking relevance should do so through ideas and sacrifice, not by demonizing others who have paid their dues.
Final Words
Hon. Oluwakayode Eseyin’s outburst is not about integrity or party discipline; it is a thinly veiled attempt to position himself politically by tearing down those ahead of him. The PDP must resist the temptation to become a cannibalistic space where members eat their own out of envy.
If we must rebuild our party and reclaim public trust, let us focus on strengthening institutions, building consensus, and showing tolerance not engaging in media vendettas.
Signed Mohammed Kabir Abdullahi, Former Deputy Publicity Secretary, PDP, Kogi State
August 2, 2025
