Former House of Representatives member Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma has explained why he petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over corruption allegations involving former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.
Agbonayinma said he submitted the petition as a concerned Nigerian seeking public accountability and proper investigation of the allegations by the relevant authorities.
The former lawmaker also faulted former Senator Dino Melaye for criticising the petition, insisting that the focus should be on the substance of the allegations rather than his personality.
Melaye had described the petition as “shameful” and claimed that the allegations against Atiku had been investigated and dismissed more than a decade ago.
Responding, Agbonayinma challenged Melaye to produce an official EFCC decision or court record supporting his claim that the matter had been conclusively dismissed.
“Rather than attacking my person, character and integrity, why not address the substance of the petition?” he asked.
Agbonayinma urged Melaye to allow the EFCC to carry out its statutory responsibilities, saying political relationships should not prevent lawful scrutiny.
“You cannot defend Atiku Abubakar from an EFCC petition by attacking me,” he said.
He added that if the EFCC considers it necessary to question Atiku, the former Vice-President should be allowed to respond to the commission.
The petition reportedly concerns allegations linked to Atiku’s time as Vice-President between 2005 and 2006. The EFCC has not publicly announced whether it will reopen the matter.
Agbonayinma further challenged Melaye to present any evidence he has against him or any documentation relating to the petition.
“If you have evidence against me, bring it forward. If you have facts concerning the petition, present them,” he stated.
“Defend the facts, not personalities,” he added.
The dispute comes as political tensions build around Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, ahead of the 2027 general election.
