Senator Dino Melaye, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the Kogi State election, emphatically denied allegations of collecting N3 billion from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group.
Speaking at a dinner organized in his honour by his campaign organization in Abuja, Melaye dismissed the speculations as baseless and the product of detractors seeking to undermine his campaign.
Describing the rumors of N1 billion from Atiku and N2 billion from Dangote as “fake news” peddled by “betrayers,” Melaye took the opportunity to set the record straight, reiterating that he did not receive any such funds for the election.
The senator emphasized that the speculation was a deliberate attempt to derail his campaign and impede the democratic process.
In addition to addressing the allegations, Melaye shared valuable insights gained from his electoral experience, outlining three key lessons.
He stressed the necessity for collaboration between zones, particularly highlighting that the east cannot produce a governor alone.
Melaye also advised fellow western candidates to heed the wisdom of elders, cautioning against influences driven by individual and selfish interests.
Reflecting on the election, Melaye acknowledged the importance of unity within the PDP family, especially in Kogi West, for the party to secure victories.
He declared that fielding more than one candidate in critical elections is against the political interest of the party.
Despite challenges, Melaye expressed gratitude for the lack of violence during the campaign and emphasized the need to hold the political family together.
He appreciated the support of leaders, with a special acknowledgment of General Tunde Ogbeha (Retd). Melaye recounted the campaign’s experiences, highlighting the absence of gunshots and violence, even during travels in the dead of night.
Addressing the anti-climax on November 11, Melaye recognized the flaws in the election process, emphasizing the disregard for democratic tenets and doctrines.
He encouraged his campaign directors not to despair, assuring them that challenges would be overcome with faith and resilience.
In his closing remarks, Melaye emphasized the campaign’s sophistication, citing a meticulously prepared policy document and an unprecedented level of financial investment.
He urged the political family not to be disillusioned and promised a resurgence at the roundabout.
Former governor of the state, Captain Idris Wada, who served as the Director General of the campaign, commended Melaye for his candid assessment and praised the senator for running a commendable campaign throughout the electoral process.
Wada lamented the missed opportunity for an alliance between the West and East senatorial zones, expressing confidence that such collaboration would have led to a PDP victory.
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