by Dolapo Adelana

The senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye, on Saturday escaped assassination attempt as unknown gunmen attacked his residence in Ayetoro-Gbede, Ijumu local government area of the state.

According to The Nigerian Tribune, the assailants invaded the residence at about 12am.

The assailants were said to have invaded the residence at about 12 am, shooting sporadically into the building.

[Read Also:] How Wike survived 5 assassination attempts in 11 months – Rivers govt

The shooting lasted for over an hour as two vehicles parked within the premises were damaged, while part of the building was also destroyed.

Narrating his ordeal to newsmen, the senator who said his home was invaded at about 12 midnight accused the chairman of the local government, Taofiq Isa, of being behind the attack because of his criticism of the state government.

“I got a rousy welcome from Kabba to my hometown yesterday (Friday) and I know it angered the power that be in the state which mobilised for this assassination attempt on my life.

“At about midnight we started hearing gunshots. They fired more than 200 rounds of bullet into the house. This attempt to kill me will not stop me from speaking the truth.

[Read Also:] Assassination attempt on Edo Speaker fails

“This attempt is being championed by the chairman of my local government. He had said it many times that he will do everything to stop me from coming home. Besides, those assailants when leaving were chanting ‘We will know if it’s Taofiq that owns the land or you’.“If I speak the truth I will die, if I lie I will die. Me, I’ve decided to speak the truth and die. I’m not afraid of death. I only respect men I don’t fear them.

“I am championing an administrative course. I will continue to speak and be voice to the voiceless. I’m not deterred, I remain resolute to make Kogi better. Nothing will stop me from coming home.”

Melaye lamented that the Police division of Aiyetoro Gbede only arrived his house three hours after the assailants had left despite being a stone thrown from his house.

“The DPO did not come to my house until three hours later. Even the area command in Kabba was not notified until I called the CP. I suspect a satanic collabo between Taofiq and the police in Aiyetoro because the duo had a meeting two days ago.

“Only God will protect us in this country but definitely not the police”.

[Read Also:] Oshiomhole says assassination attempt on Deputy Governor never happened

However, the local government chairman has denied having any hand in the alleged attack on the senator.

Isa, who challenged Melaye to prove his allegation against him said, “I’ve never been a violent man. My running battle with Dino if any is because I have asked him to stop vilifying the state governor, Yahaya Bello.

“Let him (Dino) prove it. I lost my uncle a week ago, I’m still attending to my sick wife and busy supervising the APC re-registration programs. I’m a democrat and law abiding. I challenge Dino to prove his case.”

Meanwhile, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), William Aya, said the command had already commenced investigation into the issue.