Dino Melaye Alleges PDP Has Become Subservient to APC, Accuses Party of Colluding with Presidential Villa

 

Dino Melaye, the former senator representing Kogi West, has sparked intense political debate following a bombshell claim that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has effectively been taken over by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He made this statement during a live appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, further explaining that the PDP no longer functions as a true opposition party in Nigeria’s political space.

His comments came just a day after he formally resigned from the PDP, marking a significant departure from a party where he once played prominent roles. Melaye’s exit and subsequent revelations are already stirring discussions among political observers, many of whom view the statements as an indication of the declining state of internal democracy and independence within opposition ranks.

During the televised interview, Melaye asserted that key decisions within the PDP, including the scheduling of National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings and the National Working Committee (NWC) gatherings, are now made with direct input from the country’s Presidential Villa, the seat of the APC-led Federal Government.

“PDP has been purchased by the APC. The PDP is now a parastatal of the APC,” he alleged. “In fact, they take dates for NEC meetings and NWC from Aso Villa.”

Melaye did not stop there. He questioned the loyalty and authenticity of PDP governors, implying that many of them no longer act in the best interest of a party meant to serve as a credible counterweight to the ruling APC. “Look at these PDP governors. Are they acting as opposition? And you know how powerful governors are,” he added, suggesting a level of collusion or compromise among state executives elected on the PDP platform.

His explosive remarks raise questions about the level of independence within Nigeria’s leading opposition party and whether it is still capable of holding the ruling party accountable. While Melaye provided no documentary evidence to support his claims, the details he shared have reignited existing concerns about the integrity and direction of the PDP, particularly in light of the 2023 general elections and the party's underwhelming performance.

Melaye has long been a vocal critic of both the APC and what he considers the failings within the PDP. A staunch advocate for democratic principles, he has often used public platforms to address issues around governance, corruption, and internal party politics. His latest statement, however, strikes at the heart of party politics in Nigeria, raising alarms about a possible merger of convenience and silence between the country's two largest political entities.

Political analysts are divided on the accuracy and motivation behind Melaye’s statements. Some argue that his resignation from the PDP and subsequent remarks may be rooted in personal grievances or political strategy. Others see them as a wake-up call for those still within the party who believe in strengthening internal structures and reclaiming its opposition status.

Dr. Salisu Ibrahim, a political science lecturer at the University of Abuja, notes that while Melaye’s claims may appear extreme, they are not entirely implausible. “The PDP’s recent actions, or lack thereof, lend some credibility to Melaye’s position,” he said. “There’s been a noticeable decline in opposition coordination, particularly from its governors and party leadership. If these meetings are indeed being influenced from the Villa, then democracy is in serious jeopardy.”

For its part, the PDP has yet to issue a formal response to Melaye’s accusations. Calls to several party spokespersons were unanswered at the time of writing. However, if history is any guide, the party may either attempt to downplay the matter or dismiss it outright as the outburst of a disgruntled former member.

As the 2027 general elections inch closer, Melaye’s allegations could play a role in shaping political narratives and strategies. His departure from the PDP and the reasons he has given might encourage other dissenters to speak up, or even consider forming alternative platforms to challenge the APC from a more ideologically independent standpoint.

Observers will be watching closely to see whether Melaye’s claims prompt internal reforms within the PDP or lead to more defections. What remains clear is that Nigeria’s democratic architecture faces yet another test, one that pits loyalty and political survival against transparency, accountability, and the true essence of opposition politics.