Former federal lawmaker, Dino Melaye, has explained that his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was a product of personal conviction and not a result of political pressure or alignment with any individual.
Melaye, who made his official switch on Thursday, July 31, clarified his position during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, stating that while he maintains a strong relationship with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, his political decisions remain independent.
“I have won elections in this country, from the House of Representatives to the Senate. If there is a convergence of ideologies with Atiku Abubakar, it is a fantastic thing. But I am a man of my own,” he said.
Rejecting the narrative that his defection was part of a larger opposition realignment, Melaye declared:
“I follow no one. I only follow Christ. Not because I am Daniel, but because I’ve been purchased by our Lord Jesus Christ.”
He described his bond with Atiku as “indestructible” but was quick to point out that such ties do not override his principles or independent judgment.
“Atiku is my political associate, and I share a strong bond with him. But if he is not doing the right thing, I will say so just like with anyone else,” Melaye asserted.
Referencing past political decisions, he noted that personal loyalty has never hindered his independent choices.
“Bukola Saraki is my friend and still my friend. He ran for presidency and I didn’t support him. That didn’t negatively affect our friendship.”
Melaye concluded by stressing that his political journey is guided more by the needs and aspirations of the people than by loyalty to personalities.
“It is greater to be loyal to humanity than to your friends, because at the end of the day, it is the people that matter. And I move with the people.”
His defection adds another layer to the shifting political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, where opposition figures continue to reposition amid growing national discontent.
