Former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, has issued a stern warning to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the presidency over moves to launch a fresh probe into former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar. Speaking at a town hall meeting organized by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) All Support Groups in Abuja, Melaye cautioned that any attempt to arrest or interrogate Atiku would trigger severe public backlash.
The Catalyst: A Petition to Reopen Investigations
Melaye’s comments were prompted by a recent petition submitted by former House of Representatives member, Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma. Through his legal counsel, Agbonayinma gave the anti-graft agency a 14-day ultimatum to reopen files on Atiku regarding alleged financial crimes. The petition references an EFCC report from 2005–2006 as well as a 2010 inquiry by the United States Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.
“You Cannot Torment the Creator of the EFCC”
Defending the former Vice-President, Melaye argued that Atiku played a pivotal role in the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, which established the EFCC. According to Melaye, it is a contradiction to use the agency against one of its founding architects. He further emphasized that Atiku has repeatedly faced intense scrutiny and emerged legally vindicated every time.
“I am aware that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has been investigated by Olusegun Obasanjo and the federal government time and time again,” Melaye stated. He asserted that Atiku had prevailed in 13 separate legal battles brought against him by the government, noting that investigators have exhausted all avenues of inquiry over the years.
A Warning of Civil Unrest
Melaye warned President Bola Tinubu’s administration that the opposition and the general public would not stand by if the EFCC is used as a political weapon ahead of the 2027 general elections. He invoked the historical precedent of the Tunisian revolution, suggesting that Nigerians could rise up if state institutions are weaponized against political rivals.
“Any day, due to these frivolous petitions, you invite, arrest, or interview Atiku Abubakar… invite Atiku and see trouble,” Melaye declared. He added that the ruling class represents less than one percent of the nation’s population, stressing that “government is owned by the people.”
Political Distraction From Economic Woes?
Atiku Abubakar has also dismissed the renewed push for his prosecution, describing the allegations as recycled material that has already been dismissed by courts, legislative panels, and administrative bodies. He challenged anyone with genuine evidence of financial misconduct against him to present it in a court of law. Additionally, Atiku accused the presidency of using these allegations to distract Nigerians from the pressing economic and security challenges facing the country.