The Peoples Democratic Party candidate in the November governorship election in Kogi State, Dino Melaye, has alleged that the current Governor of Kogi, Yahaya Bello, is attempting to secure a third term in office through a proxy.
Yahaya Bello, who is concluding his second term as Kogi governor, is backing Ahmed Ododo, the candidate of his party, to succeed him.
However, Dino Melaye contends that Bello is indirectly trying to remain in power via Ododo.
In an interview on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on Monday, Melaye remarked, “Don’t be deceived that Yahaya Bello is not on the ballot. Ododo is physically on the ballot but Yahaya Bello is the one seeking a third term through a proxy.”
Melaye emphasized his desire to shift the focus of the debate away from Yahaya Bello and towards promoting his political party and what he can offer Kogi State.
The former senator of Kogi West expressed confidence in unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress because a similar transition had occurred in 2003 when the PDP ousted Abubakar Audu.
Melaye pointed out that even though Yahaya Bello was the governor in 2019, he himself won the senatorial election under the PDP.
According to Melaye, the Kogi West and Central Leaders Forum evaluated the three candidates from the zone and ultimately endorsed him as their preferred choice.
While acknowledging the qualifications of all the candidates from Kogi West and Central, Melaye maintained that he is the most qualified due to his superior education, exposure, and experience.
He stated, “I was a member of the House of Reps and I was voted twice as senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Leke Abejide is a member of the House of Reps, but I was in the House of Reps 17 years ago.”
Melaye argued that the governorship of Kogi State requires individuals who have effectively managed human and material resources over the years, asserting that he is the best candidate for the role.
He also criticized the current administration of Yahaya Bello, claiming that it excessively relies on federal allocations, which he intends to change if elected.
