Dino Melaye Lambasts Western Nations at IBA 2025 Conference in Toronto
Former Nigerian Senator Dino Melaye has sparked international debate after launching a fierce criticism of Western nations during the Anti-Money Laundering and Business Crime session at the International Bar Association (IBA) 2025 Conference in Toronto, Canada.
Addressing global legal and financial experts, Melaye accused the West of hypocrisy and double standards in the global fight against corruption and illicit financial flows. He alleged that while Western countries preach transparency and accountability, they remain safe havens for proceeds of corruption and money laundering from developing nations. The West cannot continue to dictate global financial morality while serving as the final destination for stolen wealth from Africa and other developing regions,” Melaye declared. “You can’t claim to fight money laundering when your banks and systems are benefiting from it The outspoken former lawmaker emphasized that Western financial systems often enable the very crimes they condemn, arguing that anti-money laundering regulations are selectively applied to protect Western interests. Melaye’s remarks drew both applause and controversy among attendees, with several delegates acknowledging that his comments highlight uncomfortable truths about the global financial order. Others, however, cautioned that the issue is complex and requires collaborative reforms rather than confrontation. The IBA Conference, one of the largest gatherings of legal minds in the world, brings together lawyers, policymakers, and regulators to discuss pressing global legal and economic challenges. The 2025 edition has focused heavily on transparency, business crime, and the impact of international sanctions on developing economies. Melaye’s fiery contribution has since trended online, with many Nigerians praising him for boldly confronting Western powers. Analysts say his speech underscores the growing demand among developing nations for fairness, accountability, and equality in international financial regulations. As debates continue at the IBA 2025 Conference, Melaye’s “bomb on the West” has ensured that discussions around global financial justice will remain at the center of attention for the remainder of the event.
