Rotimi Amaechi Tours Dino Melaye's Mansion
Rotimi Amaechi, the former governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, paid a courtesy visit to the mansion of Dino Melaye, the former senator representing Kogi West and former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Melaye, now a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), shared clips of the visit on his social media page on Monday, July 6. In the video, Amaechi was seen admiring the interior decor and various worldly possessions in Melaye's residence.
Political Context and Speculation
The visit comes days after Amaechi met with Atiku Abubakar, the ADC presidential candidate for the 2027 election. The ADC recently named Amaechi as its 2027 vice presidential candidate, though Amaechi has neither accepted nor denied the offer publicly. His visit to Melaye, a staunch supporter of Atiku, has fueled speculation that Amaechi may have accepted the role. Melaye has been actively campaigning for Atiku under the ADC banner.
Nigerians React with Mixed Feelings
Following the release of the video, many Nigerians took to social media to express their views. Tobi Akinbo J. challenged Melaye, asking why he did not show Amaechi projects he initiated for his constituents in Kogi West, instead of focusing on interior decoration. He wrote: "You didn't take him to see projects you initiated and completed for the betterment of your people, but showing him interior decor and material things. What is an achievement to you, egbon? Look at Senator Natasha's achievements for her community and have some shame."
Babs J Nurain criticized Melaye for displaying wealth while many Nigerians live in poverty. He commented: "What a shame! A show of wealth! When many Nigerians are living in abject poverty. 7 McDonald's restaurants, franchised in the United States of America and not a single Nigerian employee. A show of shame. Trust me, we shall overcome this madness in Nigeria."
Olanusi Akintayo alleged that the mansion was built using constituency project funds. He said: "This house is Dino Melaye's Constituency project for all the periods he spent in the National Assembly (House of Representatives & Senate). Oku ooooo! Omoye!"
Jon took a swipe at Melaye, questioning his achievements: "So which projects did you show him? If you are not shameless, this meeting would have been held in a conference room or event centre you built. But it is being held in your house, which you used stolen state resources to build."
Abiodun Adeparusi made a cryptic criticism: "Hope you take time to tutor him on how and where to get those toys and machines you exhibited? Jestering is your calling."
Melaye Denies Dumping Atiku
In a related development, Dino Melaye denied reports that he had abandoned Atiku Abubakar. A viral video suggested Melaye was supporting Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2027 election. Melaye dismissed the video as AI-generated, reaffirming his unwavering support for Atiku. He expressed confidence that Atiku would win the forthcoming election.
