The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly launched an investigation into the campaign finances of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
The move follows the recent arrest of former Delta State governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vice-presidential candidate for the 2023 general election, Ifeanyi Okowa, on suspicion of mismanagement of campaign funds.
The ongoing investigation into the NNPP is said to be targeting the party’s presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, in what sources say is an attempt to weaken his political influence ahead of the 2027 elections. It is said that
“The EFCC will immediately open the case file to invite or surround the national leadership (of the NNPP) to answer questions regarding the alleged mismanagement of the 2023 campaign finances raised by some disgruntled elements of the NNPP, who have since been expelled. “We were instructed by the party to open it,” a source told Daily Nigerian.
In June, Justice Yusuf Ubale Mohammed of the Kano State High Court issued an order restraining the EFCC from taking any action against Kwankwaso over the allegations.
However, sources suggest that anti-corruption authorities may ignore the ruling due to alleged “pressure from above”.
The new scrutiny reportedly stems from recent comments by Kwankwaso that were seen as critical of President Tinubu’s alleged ambitions in North Korea.
Speaking at the convocation ceremony of Skyline University in Kano, Mr Kwankwaso said, “Lagos will not allow Kano to appoint its own chief,” referring to alleged attempts to control the region. Ta.
Observers also noted the NNPP leader’s growing political influence, particularly at his daughter’s recent wedding in Kano.
The event attracted a significant number of opposition leaders, many of whom stayed in the city for more than 48 hours and engaged in lengthy meetings and discussions with Mr. Kwankwaso.
