The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly launched an investigation into the campaign funds of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), a move that has sparked concerns about potential political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections.
This investigation follows the recent arrest of Ifeanyi Okowa, former Delta State governor and the vice-presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, who is accused of mismanaging campaign funds.
Sources close to the matter suggest that the EFCC’s focus is now shifting toward Rabiu Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the NNPP, who is reportedly under scrutiny for alleged mismanagement of the party’s 2023 campaign funds. The investigation is seen as a strategy to weaken Kwankwaso’s political influence as the 2027 elections approach. A source reportedly familiar with the probe revealed to Daily Nigerian that the EFCC has been instructed to open a case file against Kwankwaso, which could involve inviting him for questioning or even taking more drastic measures such as laying siege to him.
The probe into Kwankwaso and the NNPP comes at a time when the former Kano State governor’s political profile is on the rise. Kwankwaso’s influence, especially in the northern region, has been a point of concern for some political observers, particularly after his remarks during the convocation ceremony of Skyline University in Kano. In his speech, Kwankwaso criticized alleged attempts to dominate northern politics, claiming, “Lagos would not allow Kano to appoint its own emir,” a statement that was perceived by many as a subtle critique of President Bola Tinubu’s alleged influence in the North.
The investigation could be seen as a response to Kwankwaso’s growing political clout, particularly his ability to attract significant attention from opposition figures. For instance, his daughter’s recent wedding in Kano became a major political event, with numerous opposition leaders attending the ceremony and staying in the city for over 48 hours. During this time, extended meetings and discussions were held, underscoring Kwankwaso’s strong position within the opposition camp.
While Kwankwaso’s legal team is reportedly challenging the EFCC’s actions, it is important to note that, in June, Justice Yusuf Ubale Mohammed of the Kano State High Court had issued an order restraining the EFCC from taking any action against Kwankwaso regarding the allegations of campaign fund mismanagement. However, sources suggest that the EFCC might disregard this ruling due to perceived “pressure from above,” hinting at political forces influencing the investigation.
This situation adds a new layer to the already intense political climate in the lead-up to the 2027 elections, as the EFCC’s actions against Kwankwaso and the NNPP may have wider implications for political opposition, campaign funding transparency, and the ongoing power struggle within the country. Observers will be closely monitoring how this investigation unfolds, as it could significantly impact the strategies of both the ruling party and the opposition in the next election cycle.
