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‘He Is Not Our Member’ – ADC Accuses Dino Melaye Of Impersonation

The Kogi State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally distanced itself from Senator Dino Melaye, insisting that he holds no affiliation with the party at any level.

Tayo John, the party’s Public Relations Officer, made the declaration on Friday in Lokoja, accusing the former lawmaker of meddling in ADC affairs and launching baseless attacks against the party.

“Let me be clear: Dino Melaye is not a member of the ADC in Kogi State. He is not recognised in any of our wards and has no official identity within the party,” John said. “Consequently, he cannot speak on behalf of ADC or represent our interests in the state.”

The spokesperson accused Melaye of leveraging the party’s name for personal publicity, describing his actions as inconsistent with ADC principles. “He has neither paid membership dues nor participated in any party activities at the ward, local government, or state level. He is not qualified to represent ADC in any capacity,” John added.

John also reaffirmed that Hon. Leke Abejide, a two-term member of the House of Representatives elected under the ADC banner, remains the legitimate national leader of the party. “Abejide has been a financial member since 2018 and continues to represent the party in accordance with its rules,” he said.

He dismissed Melaye’s claims of suspending or expelling Abejide as illegal, noting that the matter is already before the courts. “Those involved cannot lawfully demand his seat be declared vacant,” John stressed.

The ADC urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Inspector-General of Police, and the public to disregard Melaye’s statements, warning that any attempt to manipulate the party for personal gain would not be tolerated.

“The senator’s aim appears to be to destabilise ADC the same way he has impacted his former political parties,” John said. He noted that the outcomes of ongoing legal proceedings—one filed by Abejide and another by the Benue ADC chairman—will determine the party’s legitimate leadership.