A grassroots political group in Kogi State, the Ijumu Voters Forum (IVF), has berated former Senator Dino Melaye over his recent comments on the Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Hon. Leke Abejide, described the ex-lawmaker as “a comedian and content creator who should be ignored by the public.”
In a statement signed on Monday by its coordinator, Hon. Eleta Kelvin Oluseyi, the Forum questioned Melaye’s political pedigree, academic claims, and record of representation, comparing them unfavourably with Abejide’s performance.
Melaye had earlier criticised Hon. Abejide over controversies within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), sparking reactions across Kogi West.
But in its response, the Forum dismissed Melaye’s intervention, insisting that the former senator “lacks the moral standing and public record to speak on behalf of the Okun people.”
The statement accused Melaye’s tenure in the 8th Senate of being dominated by “noise rather than results, drama rather than development, and controversies instead of service.”
“Leadership is measured by impact, and by that standard, his record falls short of what the people of Kogi West deserved,” the group said.
The IVF further claimed that Melaye’s public image became defined more by viral performances and political altercations than by constituency development. The group alleged that despite his high visibility, “there were no concrete empowerment initiatives, no sustained youth employment programmes, and no landmark projects credited to his time in office.”
Citing the abandoned fuel station in Ayetoro-Gbede, which it said had remained incomplete for nearly 15 years, the Forum argued that Melaye’s priorities “did not align with the needs of his people.”
In contrast, the group praised Hon. Abejide for what it described as “tangible and verifiable interventions” across Okunland, listing road projects, school infrastructure support, empowerment schemes and job facilitation efforts.
The statement urged Abejide to remain focused and avoid being distracted by “avoidable political drama.”
It further described Melaye’s criticisms as “a desperate attempt to remain relevant in a political environment that has moved beyond noise and theatrics,” referencing his performance during the 2023 Kogi governorship election as evidence of declining political influence.
“The younger generation no longer celebrates empty showmanship. They demand results, integrity, and visible progress,” the Forum said, calling on Melaye to “embrace the lessons of leadership or step aside.”
