A fresh petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged financial crimes involving Atiku Abubakar has triggered a sharp reaction from former senator Dino Melaye.
Atiku, a former vice president, is preparing to contest the 2027 presidential election under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The new petition seeks to revive allegations dating back almost two decades.
Former Lawmaker Demands Action
The petition was filed by former House of Representatives member Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma.
He asked the EFCC to reopen and investigate alleged financial crimes involving Atiku during his time as vice president.
Agbonayinma gave the anti-graft agency 14 days to respond.
He also threatened to take legal action if the commission failed to act within the period.
What the Petition Says
The petitioner alleged that the EFCC investigated claims of grand corruption involving Atiku between 2005 and 2006.
He is asking the commission to revisit the matter.
The petition was filed through Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo, SAN, of Sagitarian Law Firm.
Melaye Says Case Is Already Dead
Melaye strongly opposed the move.
In a video posted on his official X account, he said the matter had already been dealt with many years ago.
He argued that there was no justification for bringing it back.
“A petition that was thrown out over 10 years ago is what he is trying to resurrect.”
Melaye also described the petition as an attack on Atiku.
Political History Becomes Part of Debate
The former lawmaker then shifted his criticism to Agbonayinma’s political history.
Melaye referred to his movement between political parties.
He claimed that Agbonayinma left the APC, joined the ADC, moved to the NDC and later returned to the APC.
Melaye questioned whether those movements affected the former lawmaker’s credibility as a petitioner.
He also used strong language while describing Agbonayinma.
Allegations Remain Unproven
The renewed controversy centres on allegations that date back to Atiku’s period as vice president.
The petitioner’s claims are not, by themselves, proof of wrongdoing.
Any decision by the EFCC to reopen the matter would be separate from the political arguments surrounding the petition.
The report does not state that the EFCC has reopened the investigation.
It also does not include a response from Atiku or his representatives.
