EFCC probes NNPP’s campaign funds, with Kwankwaso at risk of arrest
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly begun an investigation into the campaign funds of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). This follows the arrest of Ifeanyi Okowa, the former governor of Delta State and vice-presidential candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, who is accused of mishandling campaign finances.
The EFCC’s inquiry into the NNPP appears to be centered around the party’s presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso. Some sources speculate that the investigation may be an effort to weaken his political standing ahead of the 2027 elections. According to an insider, the EFCC has been instructed to open a case against Kwankwaso, accusing him of mismanaging funds from the 2023 campaign. This claim allegedly comes from disgruntled former party members who have since been expelled from the NNPP.
In June, a court ruling by Justice Yusuf Ubale Mohammed of the Kano State High Court had prohibited the EFCC from pursuing any action against Kwankwaso regarding the allegations. However, there are indications that the commission might disregard this ruling, possibly due to external pressures.
The investigation into Kwankwaso has been linked to his recent statements, which have been interpreted as critical of President Tinubu’s potential political ambitions in the northern region. During a speech at the convocation of Skyline University in Kano, Kwankwaso commented on attempts to dominate the North, saying, “Lagos would not allow Kano to appoint its own emir.”
Political analysts also point to Kwankwaso’s growing influence, highlighted by his daughter’s recent wedding in Kano. The event attracted many opposition leaders, some of whom stayed in the city for over two days, holding lengthy meetings with Kwankwaso.
