I Can’t Join ‘An NGO Like APC,’ Dino Melaye Vows As Fani-Kayode ‘Dumps’ PDP

The former senator representing Kogi West senatorial district, Dino Melaye, has denied defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Melaye, in a tweet on Tuesday, said he was still a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and couldn’t have left the party for “an NGO like APC”.

The former Kogi governorship aspirant tweeted: “God go punish those coming to say Dino leave PDP. How can l leave a Political Party and join an NGO like APC? Yeye dey smell.”

Melaye’s reaffirmation of his PDP membership is coming amidst reports that former aviation minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, had dumped the party for the APC.

Fani-Kayode was seen in viral social media photos with the National Caretaker chairman of the APC, Mai Mala Buni, and Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.

The former minister had said after his meeting with the APC chieftains: “… I had the distinct honor and pleasure of having a very productive and important meeting with the National Chairman of the APC, Governor Mai Buni of Yobe state and Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state.

“We discussed the state of the nation, pressing national issues, party politics and the way forward. These meetings are wide-ranging and ongoing and I am delighted to be involved in them.

“Despite the obvious benefits and wisdom in this noble initiative it amazes me that some people should feel that it is wrong for me to sit with other leaders in the country to discuss issues which touch and concern the national cohesion, future and stability of our country.

“This is a time in which we must set all our differences aside, build bridges and come together as one lest our country drifts into fratricidal butchery and civil war.”

Fani-Kayode further said it was important for leaders “across political, religious and regional lines” to come together and work for the country’s progress.

He added that, “I can and will never compromise or jettison my core fundamental principles for any reason and I stand firmly on my honestly held opinion that we need to enthrone equity, justice and fairness in this country for it to survive.

“I also believe in restructuring the country and in a vigorous and effective fight against terrorism. The fact that I am in talks with leaders from a cross section of political parties, including the ruling party, does not in any way derogate from this and does not mean that I will ever change those views.

“The next few months will be critical in terms of whether or not our country will survive as one and I believe that if we want it to do so dialogue, building bridges and collaboration, even with those that you may disagree with on some issues, is vital and inevitable.

“That was the purpose of our meeting. Permit me to add the following for the record. I will always stand for justice and I will never cease to oppose evil. Yet the greatest evil that we are confronted with today is the prospect of a second civil war.”