The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly initiated a probe into the campaign funds of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
This development follows the recent arrest of Ifeanyi Okowa, former Delta State governor and vice presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, over alleged mismanagement of campaign funds.
The ongoing investigation into the NNPP is allegedly targeting the party’s presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, in what sources describe as an attempt to weaken his political influence ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The EFCC has been directed to immediately open a case file against the national leader [of NNPP] to invite or lay siege to him to answer questions on the allegation of mismanagement of 2023 campaign fund instituted by some disgruntled elements in NNPP who were since expelled from the party,” a source disclosed to 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 regarding the allegations.
However, sources suggest that the anti-graft agency may disregard this ruling due to alleged “pressure from above.”
The renewed scrutiny reportedly stems from Kwankwaso’s recent comments perceived as critical of President Tinubu’s alleged ambitions in the North.
Speaking at the convocation ceremony of Skyline University in Kano, Mr. Kwankwaso remarked on purported attempts to dominate the region, stating, “Lagos would not allow Kano to appoint its own emir.”
Observers also point to the NNPP leader’s growing political clout, particularly evident during his daughter’s recent wedding in Kano.
The event attracted a significant number of opposition leaders, many of whom stayed in the city for over 48 hours, engaging in extended meetings and discussions with Mr. Kwankwaso.