“Dino Melaye Attempted To Kill Himself And Put Police In Trouble” – Witness Tells Court

A witness, Abama Mallum, on Thursday told an FCT High Court that he heard Dino Melaye, the Senator representing Kogi West District, shouting that he would kill himself and put the police in trouble.

Mr Mallum, a police inspector and driver with the IGP Special Tactical Squad, said that he overheard Mr Melaye make the threat while attempting to escape for police custody.

He made the allegation while testifying in the ongoing trial of Melaye, who is facing trial on six counts of attempted suicide, attempt to escape from custody and damage to police property.

The witness informed the court that while on duty on April 24, 2018, Amos Boka, an Assitant Superintendent of Police, told him to convey Mr. Melaye and some police officers to Lokoja.

“As we moved around 2 p.m by Area I roundabout, a white Toyota Hilux blocked me, I applied the brakes. The vehicle knocked off my side-mirror.

“I heard the senator shouting at the officers. I then heard the sound of a glass breaking.’’

“All of a sudden, Sen. Melaye jumped out of the vehicle, shouting that he would not go to Lokoja.

The witness alleged that Mr Melaye had a sharp instrument in his hands and he was shouting: ”I will kill myself and put the police in trouble’’.

“At this point, the police officers pleaded with the defendant to get back in the car but he refused.

“A crowd had also started gathering in Area I. I was ordered to put the car in reverse and go back to the office,” he said.

Mr Mallum alleged that a white van blocked the car he was driving.

Counsel to the defendant, Alex Izinyon, SAN, requested the court go to the car park where the vehicles tendered as exhibits were kept so that the witness can identify the car.

The judge, Silvanus Oriji, then adjourned the case to until May 27 for cross-examination.