The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide a full account of allegations that senior officials of the Commission received land and cash gifts from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the party expressed concern over media reports suggesting that the Minister had offered such benefits to top INEC personnel. The PDP referenced a reported comment by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Supervising National Commissioner for the FCT, allegedly acknowledging receipt of a land allocation.
The party described the development as “disturbing and worrisome,” noting that it has fuelled speculation about a possible “land-for-favour” arrangement aimed at influencing key institutions involved in the electoral process.
According to the PDP, the alleged allocations raise questions about fairness and priority, particularly as similar gestures have not been extended to other critical public sector workers, including healthcare professionals, teachers, and security personnel, many of whom also require accommodation within the Federal Capital Territory.
The opposition party urged the INEC Chairman to address the allegations directly, stating that reports suggesting he may also be a beneficiary further heighten public concern.
It warned that the controversy risks eroding public confidence in the electoral body, stressing the need for immediate clarification to preserve institutional credibility.
“The Commission must, as a matter of urgency, inform Nigerians of the true situation regarding this matter,” the statement said, adding that INEC must uphold the highest standards of transparency and impartiality in both conduct and perception.
The PDP emphasised that, as the nation’s electoral umpire, INEC must remain above reproach in order to maintain public trust in Nigeria’s democratic processes.
