In a series of blistering statements, former Kogi West senator, Dino Melaye, has once again taken aim at the current state of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), a party he once served with great loyalty.
On Sunday, Melaye expressed his deep disappointment, lamenting that the founding fathers of the PDP—esteemed figures such as Alex Ekwueme, Solomon Lar, Sunday Awoniyi, Adamu Chiroma, Tony Anenih, and Abubakar Rimi—would be distraught over the direction in which the party is heading under its present leadership.
Melaye’s criticism was particularly targeted at the PDP’s acting National Chairman, Iliya Damagum, along with key figures such as Samuel Anyanwu and Umar Bature.
According to Melaye, these individuals have so severely mismanaged the party that it has been reduced to what he metaphorically describes as an “obituary.”
The former senator did not mince words in his condemnation of the party’s current state.
He argued that the actions of Damagum, Anyanwu, and Bature have irreparably damaged the PDP, which once stood as a formidable force in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Melaye contends that the leadership trio has not only weakened the party but has also betrayed the vision of its founders, who aspired to create a truly national political organisation.
Melaye’s discontent with the PDP leadership is not a new development. Over recent months, he has consistently criticised the direction in which the party has been taken.
However, his latest remarks underscore a growing frustration with what he perceives as the commercialisation and privatisation of the party.
In his view, the PDP, which played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, surviving numerous challenges over 27 years, is now a shadow of its former self.
In a pointed social media post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Melaye expressed his anguish over the party’s decline.
He wrote: “PDP is the only surviving party of the 4th Republic. After 27 years of surviving all shenanigans, Alex Ekwueme, Solomon Lar, Sunday Awoniyi, Adamu Chiroma, Tony Anenih, Abubakar Rimi, etc. will be turning in their graves seeing what Damagun, Ayanwu and Bature are doing to the dream of building a national party. PDP now, Obituary.”
This stark statement reflects Melaye’s belief that the current leadership has not only strayed from the founding principles of the PDP but has also actively dismantled the structures that made it a significant player in Nigerian politics.
He suggests that the party’s leadership has prioritised personal gain over the collective good, leading to a situation where the PDP is no longer the vibrant, national force it once was.
Melaye’s criticism raises important questions about the future of the PDP. Once the dominant political party in Nigeria, the PDP has seen its influence wane in recent years.
Internal divisions, leadership struggles, and a perceived disconnect from its grassroots support have all contributed to this decline.
Melaye’s remarks highlight the growing concern among party loyalists that the PDP may not be able to recover from its current crisis.
The former senator’s comments also serve as a reminder of the legacy of the PDP’s founding fathers.
These leaders, who included some of Nigeria’s most respected statesmen, envisioned a party that would unite the country and provide effective governance.
They worked tirelessly to build a party that could stand the test of time and serve as a platform for national development.
Melaye’s lamentation that these figures would be “turning in their graves” suggests that he believes the current leadership has betrayed this legacy.
As the PDP continues to navigate its internal challenges, Melaye’s critique underscores the need for introspection within the party.
For the PDP to regain its former glory, it will need to address the concerns raised by figures like Melaye and reconnect with its foundational principles.
The party’s survival will depend on its ability to unite its members, restore its credibility, and present a compelling vision for Nigeria’s future.
In conclusion, Dino Melaye’s latest attack on the PDP leadership is more than just political rhetoric; it is a call to action for the party to return to its roots.
As the PDP grapples with its identity and future direction, the voices of its loyalists, both past and present, will be crucial in shaping the party’s path forward.
Whether the PDP can rise from its current state and reclaim its place in Nigerian politics remains to be seen, but what is clear is that the party cannot afford to ignore the warnings of those who helped build it.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate