The Kogi State chapter of the African Democratic Congress has distanced itself from Senator Dino Melaye, cautioning him to stop identifying as a member of the party.
The party’s Public Relations Officer, Tayo John, issued the clarification in Lokoja on Friday, stating that Melaye’s alleged interference in ADC affairs and persistent criticism of its leadership were unacceptable.
John said the state executive committee had repeatedly affirmed that there was no alliance or merger with political actors “parading themselves as ADC members,” adding that Melaye was not recognised at any level of the party.
According to him, “Dino Melaye is not a member of ADC in Kogi State. He is not known in his ward as a member of our party and therefore cannot speak for the ADC.”
He described Melaye as an “imposter” who had neither paid membership dues nor participated in party activities at the ward, local government, or state levels.
John added that the senator’s conduct amounted to impersonation, insisting that he lacked the legitimacy to comment on party matters or identify with the ADC.
He noted that Hon. Leke Abejide remained the party’s national leader, having been elected into the House of Representatives on the ADC platform and maintaining financial membership since 2018.
The party urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Inspector General of Police, and the public to disregard Melaye’s comments on ADC affairs, alleging that his actions were aimed at destabilising the party.
John further stated that ongoing court cases instituted by Abejide and the ADC chairman in Benue State would ultimately determine rightful authority within the party.
He stressed that Abejide’s position in the party was protected by its constitution, adding that attempts to suspend or expel him were invalid.
