The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) efforts to reconcile its members took an unexpected dive into controversy. Senator Dino Melaye, the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate in Kogi State, clashed with former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, during the PDP North Central Zone leadership meeting. The altercation, which occurred on Wednesday, was reportedly over Ortom’s alleged support for President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 election.
According to sources, the dispute erupted when Melaye expressed shock at Ortom’s presence at the meeting, questioning his loyalty after Ortom had publicly declared support for Tinubu. The confrontation escalated quickly, with Melaye accusing Ortom of anti-party activities and calling for disciplinary measures. Witnesses described the scene as both leaders exchanged heated words, leaving attendees in a state of disbelief.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about party unity and discipline, as the PDP grapples with internal rifts following the G-5 governors’ actions against the party in the 2023 polls. The G-5, a group of former PDP governors, had previously expressed discontent with the zoning of the party’s chairmanship seat and had shown support for Tinubu and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.
As the dust settles, the PDP leadership is faced with the challenge of bridging divides and fostering a cohesive front. The north-central region has been slated to produce the next national chairman of the party, a decision that emerged from the same meeting marred by discord.
For more details on this developing story, stay tuned to our updates.
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