The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the Kogi State governorship election, Dino Melaye, has defended his decision not to vote during the polls, asserting that it should not be blamed for his defeat. Melaye, who secured a distant third position in the election, with Usman Ododo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerging as the governor-elect, addressed the speculation surrounding his choice not to cast a vote.
In an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Melaye dismissed the notion that his decision not to vote played a significant role in his electoral performance. He argued, “People win elections from prison; whether I vote or not, it is immaterial.” Melaye emphasized that the legal status of voting or not voting has no relevance to the election outcome, citing examples of individuals winning elections while incarcerated.
The former senator’s remarks come amid claims that his decision not to participate in the voting process may have negatively impacted his chances in the election. Despite the speculation, Melaye maintained that the issue holds no legal weight and should not be considered a determining factor in the electoral outcome.