The Kogi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the suspension of one of its prominent members, Senator Dino Melaye, citing allegations of anti-party activities and misconduct.
The suspension was made official through a resolution passed by the ward party executive committee in Ayetoro/Iluagba Ward 1, where Melaye hails from.
According to the PDP, the decision followed the former senator’s failure to appear before a disciplinary committee set up to investigate his actions, which were seen as detrimental to the unity and objectives of the party.
In a letter detailing the resolution, signed by the Ward Chairman, Abayomi Osamika, and the Ward Secretary, Yodson Dayo, the PDP noted that Melaye had refused to honour a formal summon issued by the party.
The executive committee of Ayetoro Gbede, Ward 1, convened a meeting to deliberate on the disciplinary committee’s findings, which led to the resolution to suspend the former lawmaker.
The party described Melaye’s behaviour as damaging to its image and contrary to its core principles, accusing him of engaging in activities that were counterproductive to the party’s interests. “Senator Dino Melaye’s conduct has brought embarrassment and disrepute to the party, and his continued membership is no longer tenable,” the letter stated. 
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The resolution further emphasized that the decision was made in line with the provisions of the PDP’s constitution, specifically Article 59 (1), which grants ward executive committees the authority to take disciplinary action against members who fail to uphold party values or engage in misconduct.
“The suspension is in line with provisions of Article 59 (1) of the PDP constitution which empowers the Ward party excos to take disciplinary actions against erring members,” the statement read. The suspension, according to the letter, took effect immediately.
This development marks a significant escalation in internal party discipline, as Melaye, a former Senator who represented Kogi West, has been a high-profile figure within the PDP and has been involved in multiple electoral contests. His suspension signals a firm stance by the PDP against what it perceives as divisive or disloyal behaviour by its members.
The PDP’s suspension of Melaye follows a broader trend within the party of taking disciplinary measures against members accused of anti-party activities.
For instance, in August 2024, the party suspended Peter Babalola, a chieftain from Osun, for failing to attend party meetings for two years and engaging in activities that undermined the PDP’s cohesion. Melaye’s case appears to follow a similar trajectory, with the party showing little tolerance for actions it deems harmful to its organisational structure and unity.
It remains to be seen how Melaye will respond to his suspension or whether he will seek redress within the party or through legal channels. However, his suspension is certain to generate significant discussion within political circles, given his prominence and influence in Kogi State politics.
