PDP Now A Parastatal Of APC, Purchased By Ruling Party — Dino Melaye

Former Senator Dino Melaye has launched a scathing attack on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleging that the main opposition party has effectively become a subsidiary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Melaye, the PDP has lost its independence and is now operating under the direct influence of the APC and the Presidential Villa.

Speaking during an appearance on Politics Today, a political affairs programme on Channels Television aired on Friday, Melaye declared that the PDP had been “purchased” by the APC and now functions as one of its parastatals.

“PDP has been purchased by APC. PDP is a parastatal of the APC. PDP is a department of the APC. In fact, they take dates for NEC meetings and dates for when to have NWC from the [Presidential] Villa,” he said.

Melaye, who recently defected from the PDP to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), blamed the APC for systematically undermining and infiltrating the PDP to weaken Nigeria’s democracy and neutralize credible opposition voices.

He also questioned the commitment of PDP governors, accusing them of tacitly working for the ruling party rather than holding it accountable.

“Just look at the number of governors in the PDP today. Are these governors acting like opposition governors? Are they playing opposition roles as governors? Those who are remaining in the PDP are holding fort for the APC,” he said.

Melaye’s comments come amid a growing wave of defections and internal crises within the PDP, which has seen dwindling influence since losing the presidency in 2015. The party, once the dominant political force in Nigeria, has struggled to maintain cohesion and mount a strong opposition against the APC-led government.

Observers say Melaye’s defection to the ADC may signal a broader realignment within the opposition space, as smaller parties seek to reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, some critics argue that his statements may be more reflective of personal grievances than objective political analysis.

The PDP leadership is yet to officially respond to Melaye’s allegations.