"To God Be the Glory!" – Senator Dino Melaye Rejoices as He Joins the Nigerian Bar

In a moment that has stirred congratulations across political and legal circles, former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, has been officially called to the Nigerian Bar. The flamboyant politician and social media sensation took to his verified platforms to announce the news on Thursday, July 11, 2025, with a heartfelt declaration: “To God be the glory.” The statement, though brief, echoed with deep emotion, signaling a personal triumph that many never saw coming.

Dino Melaye, known for his bold fashion, vocal political stance, and controversial public appearances, now adds “Barrister” to his ever-expanding portfolio of titles. While many know him as a fierce critic of government policies, a showman in the Nigerian political landscape, and a former senator with a flair for theatrics, this latest milestone underscores a more serious and academic side to the man who has never shied away from the spotlight.

Photos and videos of the call-to-bar ceremony have since flooded social media, showing Melaye resplendent in the full regalia of a Nigerian lawyer — black suit, white shirt, bib, and the iconic wig. Smiling from ear to ear, the former senator stood among fellow new wigs, looking every bit the proud achiever. The image quickly went viral, not just because of the man in the picture, but because of the journey it represents.

Melaye’s journey to the bar did not start overnight. It is a story that goes beyond the courtroom. Known for his many academic pursuits, the senator has always flaunted his educational achievements. A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, with a degree in Geography, he has also earned a slew of certificates and degrees from various institutions worldwide. Though he has often faced scrutiny over some of these claims, his enrollment in law school and successful call to the bar marks an undeniable academic and professional accomplishment.

Friends, fans, and even political foes have extended their congratulations. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), while not issuing a formal statement, saw its members in the legal community express admiration for Melaye’s resilience. One senior advocate of Nigeria noted that, regardless of politics, the feat was worthy of respect: “To become a lawyer in Nigeria is no easy task. It requires rigorous study, discipline, and dedication. For a man who has had such a busy public life to complete this journey, I say kudos to him.”

For Melaye, this is more than just a title. In the ever-dynamic arena of Nigerian politics, having a law degree and legal standing could signal a strategic move. Legal knowledge, especially in a country where politics and litigation go hand in hand, is a potent weapon. Observers speculate that Melaye’s call to the bar may play a role in future political endeavors, especially with the 2027 general elections on the horizon.

Melaye’s critics, however, were not silent. Some questioned the sincerity of his motive or the authenticity of his legal interest, suggesting that this could just be another show for attention. Others pointed to his checkered political career, wondering how the law profession would reconcile with some of his controversial past behavior. But for every critique, there were two praises, as many Nigerians applauded the idea of a public figure embracing education at a later stage in life.

It wasn’t just politicians who noticed. Young Nigerians took to X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram, drawing inspiration from Melaye’s achievement. “Dino Melaye just proved that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams,” one user posted. Another wrote, “If he can do it with his kind of busy schedule, what’s my excuse?” The general sentiment reflected admiration — not just for becoming a lawyer, but for defying expectations.

Melaye himself seemed unbothered by the noise. In a short video posted after the ceremony, he was seen thanking God, saying, “Only God could have done this. To Him alone be all the glory. It’s been a journey, and I give Him praise.” He spoke passionately about the sacrifices, the sleepless nights, and the mental discipline it took to get through law school and the rigorous bar exams. It was a rare glimpse into the private challenges faced by a very public man.

The Nigerian Law School, known for its strict structure and high standards, has produced some of the finest legal minds in the country. For Dino Melaye to make it through, despite the weight of public expectations and political distractions, is a feat that commands recognition. Law students and legal practitioners know the demands of the profession — from mastering the Nigerian Legal System to procedural law, constitutional law, ethics, and professional conduct — it is not a course for the faint-hearted.

This development also opens up new chapters for Melaye. With his new qualification, he can now offer legal counsel, represent clients in court, and participate in the legal discourse of the nation. Whether he intends to actively practice law or simply add the title to his political arsenal remains to be seen, but what’s clear is that Melaye has once again rewritten the narrative around his name.

From senator to singer of political anthems, from protester to preacher, and now to barrister, Dino Melaye continues to evolve in the most unexpected ways. Love him or hate him, his ability to reinvent himself and stay relevant in Nigeria’s ever-volatile political and social space is undeniable.

As congratulatory messages continue to pour in, the former senator shows no sign of slowing down. Perhaps this new phase will usher in a more refined, more deliberate version of Dino Melaye. Or perhaps, true to form, he will continue to entertain, educate, and provoke the Nigerian public — this time with the law on his side, and not just in his favor.

But for now, all he had to say was, “To God be the glory.” And for once, the country nodded in agreement.