Atiku EFCC Petition: Agbonayinma Hits Back At Dino Melaye, Demands Evidence

Former House of Representatives member Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma has responded to criticism from former Senator Dino Melaye over a petition he filed before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission concerning allegations involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Agbonayinma challenged Melaye to focus on the substance of the petition rather than attacking his character or political activities. Melaye had previously criticised the move to revisit allegations dating back to Atiku’s time as vice-president, arguing that the matter had already been investigated and dismissed more than a decade ago.

Agbonayinma questioned why Melaye was focusing on him instead of addressing the allegations contained in the petition. He also urged the EFCC to carry out its statutory responsibilities and determine whether there was any basis for further action.

“You cannot defend Atiku Abubakar from an EFCC petition by attacking me,” Agbonayinma said, arguing that Atiku should be allowed to respond to any questions that could arise if the commission decides to investigate the matter.

The former lawmaker also rejected Melaye’s claim concerning his political affiliation, describing the assertion that he was seeking to join the African Democratic Congress as false. Agbonayinma maintained that he is a member of the National Democratic Congress and said Melaye’s statement was either deliberate or based on inadequate information about his current political affiliation.

Agbonayinma further challenged Melaye to produce an official EFCC decision or court record supporting his assertion that the matter had been dismissed more than 10 years ago. He said the controversy should be settled through evidence rather than personal exchanges or political arguments.

The former lawmaker also dismissed Melaye’s description of him as “unstable,” saying his public-service record was available for scrutiny and that he was prepared to defend his integrity.

The dispute follows Agbonayinma’s recent petition asking the EFCC to reopen allegations concerning Atiku that date back to 2005 and 2006. His lawyer, Hannibal Uwaifo, reportedly gave the commission 14 days to act on the request.

Atiku has previously said that he was not convicted despite investigations by government institutions and has maintained that anyone with evidence against him should present it. The EFCC has not publicly announced a decision on whether it will reopen the matter raised in Agbonayinma’s petition.