With a stint of four years in both the Senate and House of Representatives, Dino Melaye left a long trail of drama to remember him for, writes Esther Adedoyin in this EX-NASS MEMBERS SERIES
Dino Melaye was born on January 1, 1974, in Kano State, Nigeria. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in the pursuit of social issues.
A geography graduate from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Melaye’s educational journey provided him with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of Nigerian politics. Having developed a reputation for being vocal about various issues affecting Nigerian society, he joined politics. In 2003, Melaye contested and won a seat in the House of Representatives to represent the Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu federal constituency of Kogi State at the age of 29.
Although he became known for his vocal championing of public causes related to youth empowerment, education, and good governance, a defining moment of his tenure in the House was at the centre of a fracas on the floor, which left him with torn clothes and a bruised ego in 2007.
Melaye exited politics after that disgraceful incident and re-emerged in 2015 when he contested for and won a seat in the Senate to represent Kogi west senatorial district under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
However, Melaye’s tenure as a senator was marked by controversy, theatrics, and confrontations, including a notorious exchange with Sen. Remi Tinubu, who is now Nigeria’s first lady. His alliance with Sen. Bukola Saraki, President of the Senate at the time, further exposed him to several other challenges, including a protracted police arrest saga, legal battles and allegations of certificate forgery. Despite these obstacles, Melaye remained resilient, continuing to advocate for the causes he believed in and striving to make a positive impact on Nigerians’ lives.
Throughout his political career, Melaye’s flamboyant personality and outspoken nature garnered both praise and criticism. While some admired his courage and determination, others viewed him as a controversial and polarising figure in Nigerian politics.
In conclusion, Dino Melaye’s journey from his early childhood and education to his tenure as a senator reflects the complexities of Nigerian politics and the challenges faced by those who choose to serve the public.
