Former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, has been exonerated after a six-year legal tussle with the Federal Government, marking the end of a high-profile case that started in 2018. The case, which centered around allegations of falsehood and political rivalry, had become a significant point of contention in Melaye’s political career and an emblematic struggle for the controversial lawmaker.
The legal battle began in February 2018 when Melaye was accused of falsely implicating Edward Onoja, the former Chief of Staff to Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, in a plot to assassinate him. Onoja, a key political figure in Kogi State and an ally of Governor Bello, was allegedly targeted by Melaye, who was then seen as a vocal critic of the Bello administration. The case quickly gained national attention, with many seeing it as a reflection of the growing political tension in Kogi State between Melaye and the state government.
In his defense, Melaye maintained his innocence, alleging that the charges were politically motivated and orchestrated to silence him. He consistently criticized the Kogi State government under Governor Yahaya Bello, accusing it of poor governance and corruption. The charges against him were seen by his supporters as an attempt to undermine his political influence and weaken his stance against the state government.
However, the case encountered several delays and setbacks. One of the most significant was the death of the presiding judge, Justice Aromeh Benson Akogu, who passed away in December 2017 during a church service. This unfortunate event led to further delays in the trial, extending the legal battle for several more years. Throughout the trial, Melaye’s legal team, led by prominent human rights lawyer, Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), worked tirelessly to defend him against the accusations.
On Monday, October 7, 2024, Melaye took to social media to announce his victory in the long-standing case. In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), he expressed his relief and gratitude for the outcome, thanking God, his legal team, and supporters for their unwavering faith throughout the ordeal.
“I take life as it comes, but in all the vicissitudes of life, I trust in God only. He is always with the just. Justice served after 6 years. Justice delayed is never justice denied. To God alone be the glory,” Melaye wrote in his post.
He also praised the work of his lead counsel, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, and fellow legal representative, Ricky Tafa, for their dedication and expertise in handling the case. “Prof. Mike Ozekhome again. To God be the glory. The 12th and last case of FG and IGP v Dino Melaye was decided this morning in a profound judgement by Justice Oriji of the FCT High Court Maitama. I was discharged and acquitted. Long journey since 2018. Truth is constant. SDM,” he added.
Melaye’s acquittal marked the conclusion of the 12th case brought against him by the Federal Government and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP). In his post, Melaye proudly emphasized that he had won all 12 legal cases, asserting that justice had consistently prevailed in his favor.
“Justice served after 6 years. Justice delayed is never justice denied. God alone be praised. SEN. DINO MELAYE 12 – FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND IGP 0. 12 CASES ALL WON BY GOD. PROF MIKE OZEKHOME AND RICKY TAFA THANK YOU. NO RETREAT NO SURRENDER,” Melaye continued, expressing his firm belief in the power of truth and justice.
The initial case that sparked the legal battle had raised serious political implications in Kogi State, as it was rooted in accusations of assassination attempts and alleged political sabotage. The trial’s drawn-out nature saw Melaye embroiled in multiple controversies, including arrests, court appearances, and numerous publicized confrontations with law enforcement agencies. At one point, he was even hospitalized following an attempt to evade police custody, further adding to the drama surrounding the case.
Despite the intense legal pressures and the numerous setbacks, Melaye’s acquittal now stands as a personal and political victory for the outspoken former senator. Known for his flamboyant style, vocal criticism of government officials, and his unwavering stance on national issues, Melaye’s victory serves as a symbolic triumph for his supporters, who have long viewed him as a champion of the people and a defender of democratic principles.
As the legal clouds surrounding his political career finally lift, Melaye is expected to continue his involvement in national politics. His victory in the court case could potentially reinvigorate his political aspirations, particularly in Kogi State, where he remains a prominent figure and a key player in shaping the political landscape.
In closing his statement, Melaye reiterated his belief in the Nigerian judiciary and expressed relief at the resolution of the legal battle that had spanned over half a decade. “Truth is constant,” he declared, signaling his readiness to move forward and continue his political journey without retreat.
The judgement delivered by Justice Oriji of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama not only brought an end to one of the most protracted political-legal battles in recent Nigerian history but also reaffirmed the enduring power of the judiciary to provide justice, even in the face of overwhelming political odds.
