The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State has suspended its former governorship candidate, Senator Dino Melaye, due to alleged anti-party activities.
The suspension, announced by the party’s executive committee in Ayetoro Gbede, Ward 1, was detailed in a memo dated September 12, 2024.
The memo states: “The Ward Party Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ayetoro/lluagba Ward 1 convened on Friday, September 12, 2024, to review the report from the disciplinary committee tasked with investigating allegations of anti-party activities against Senator Dino Melaye, a member of our esteemed party.”
The party indicated that Melaye was invited to appear before the Disciplinary Committee on August 20, 2024, to respond to allegations of misconduct and anti-party activities, as stipulated by Article 57(4) of the PDP Constitution.
“However, he failed to respond to the invitation, showing a disregard for both the invitation and the authority of the party,” the memo asserts.
“After thorough consideration and deliberation, the Ward Party Exco reached the following conclusions: Senator Dino Melaye’s failure to appear before the Disciplinary Committee demonstrates a gross disrespect towards the party and its leadership.
“His actions are in direct violation of the PDP Constitution and party discipline. Furthermore, Senator Melaye’s conduct has caused embarrassment and disrepute to the party, rendering his continued membership untenable.
“Consequently, the Ward Party Exco hereby suspends Senator Dino Melaye from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately.”
The party added, “This suspension is in accordance with Article 59(1) of the PDP Constitution, which grants the Ward Party Exco the authority to impose disciplinary actions against members who violate party protocols.
“We encourage all members of our esteemed party to uphold the principles of discipline and loyalty.
“It is vital that we work collectively to strengthen our party, ensuring it remains capable of winning elections and serving the interests of our community.”
In a letter addressed to the ward chairman and dated September 9, 2024, the disciplinary committee stated, “Due to Senator Dino Melaye’s refusal to appear in person or through legal representation, despite being summoned and reminded, the panel recommends his immediate suspension from the party, pending approval and ratification by the ward executive.”
The panel members included Owonibi Babarinde (Chairman), Asaju Earnest Ade (Secretary), and members Ireti Alyejiwa, Omolade Esho, Eniola Olorunfemi, Mukala Ismail, and Olowo Ruth.
In a letter dated August 25, 2024, the committee informed Melaye, “During a meeting held on August 24, 2024, the ward executives of Aiyetoro 1 discussed recent remarks and misconduct by party members, as well as a review of our performance in the November 2023 governorship elections.
“Allegations have emerged regarding your management of party funds during the last governorship election, along with reckless statements and anti-party activities that could harm the party’s reputation.
“Consequently, the party executive has established a seven-member panel to investigate the alleged anti-party activities against you.”
Another letter dated August 26, 2024, and addressed to Melaye stated, “In line with Article 57(4) of the Peoples Democratic Party’s disciplinary measures, we hereby summon you to appear before the Disciplinary Committee, either in person or with legal representation, to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken regarding your alleged breaches of party constitution.
“You are required to appear before the seven-member committee between August 26 and 31, 2024, at 10 AM sharp.
“If necessary, you may communicate in writing to the panel regarding a convenient time for your appearance within this timeframe.”
The party sent an additional reminder letter to Melaye on August 31, 2024, which read, “This is a reminder for you to appear before the panel established by the party.
“Please note that today, August 31, is the final day for the panel to hear the allegations.
“The panel has generously extended the summons by three additional days; failure to appear will result in disciplinary action.”
