FORMER Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has criticized ex-senator Dino Melaye, branding him a ‘liability’ to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in a scathing rebuke.
Ortom’s statement further highlight the internal conflicts within the opposition party, revealing the underlying divisions and tensions within.
In a statement released by his media aide, Terver Akase, Ortom launched this verbal assault in response to Melaye’s criticism at the North Central Zonal meeting in Abuja on Thursday.
Melaye had attacked Ortom for his supportive stance towards President Tinubu’s government in a statement made in Port Harcourt, accusing Ortom of engaging in activities against the party’s interests during the 2023 general election.
In his response titled “Melaye: ‘A leopard won’t change its spots, time to graduate from thuggery,” Ortom described Melaye as a liability not only to the PDP but also to the people of Kogi State.
He highlighted Melaye’s unsuccessful bid for governor and his lack of contribution to the party, instead tarnishing its reputation with his questionable actions.
Ortom’s remarks again underscores the escalating conflict within the PDP, with different factions competing for power and influence in anticipation of future elections.
By portraying Melaye as a liability to the party, Ortom’s statements is likely to intensify existing divisions within the PDP, leaving supporters of both individuals to navigate the aftermath of the governor’s critique. Melaye, known for his outspoken and controversial nature in Nigerian politics, has not yet publicly responded to Ortom’s comments.
This exchange between Ortom and Melaye may indicate broader tensions within the PDP as it seeks to consolidate its position as the main opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Internal discord poses a threat to party unity, presenting leaders like Ortom with the challenge of balancing personal ambitions with the imperative of maintaining party cohesion.
