Former Edo Lawmaker Fires Back at Dino Melaye over Atiku Claims

Former lawmaker, Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma, has responded to Senator Dino Melaye's attacks on his petition against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Agbonayinma challenged Melaye to discuss the actual allegations instead of making personal attacks.

Senator Dino Melaye called Agbonayinma’s petition “shameful” in a viral video. He claimed the issues raised against Atiku were already checked and dismissed over 10 years ago.

The ex-Kogi senator also questioned Agbonayinma’s political background. He said Agbonayinma had approached him, asking to join the ADC.

In a statement on Saturday, Agbonayinma told reporters in Benin that Melaye's claim about his desire to join the ADC was not true. He insisted he is a member of the National Democratic Congress.

Agbonayinma accused Melaye of being either misinformed or deliberately lying about his political status. He emphasized that he filed the petition to the EFCC as a concerned Nigerian who wants public accountability. He said it is important for the EFCC to investigate any claims of corruption.

He also claimed Melaye was trying to protect Atiku from investigation through loyalty and personal insults.

“Instead of attacking my character, why not talk about the petition?” he asked. He urged Melaye to let the EFCC do its job.

“You cannot protect Atiku Abubakar from an EFCC petition by attacking me,” Agbonayinma said. He added that if Atiku has nothing to hide, he should answer any questions from the commission.

In response to Melaye calling him “unstable,” Agbonayinma dismissed the comment as childish. He said, “My record in public service speaks for itself, and I am ready to defend my integrity anywhere.”

Agbonayinma also challenged Melaye to show any official EFCC report or court document proving his claim that the matter was dismissed years ago.

He stated that he is not afraid of Melaye’s insults or dramatics. He believes the matter should be resolved based on evidence.

Agbonayinma urged Melaye to stop what he called political nonsense and focus on the real issues. He warned that Nigerians would judge the actions of everyone involved in this controversy.

“If you have proof against me, show it. If you have facts about the petition, present them. Focus on the facts, not personal attacks,” he added.