PDP Demands INEC Clarify Alleged Land and Cash Gifts from Minister Wike
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, has issued a strong call to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently clarify disturbing allegations. The opposition party is demanding transparency regarding reports that senior officials of the electoral body received land allocations and cash gifts from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Statement from PDP National Publicity Secretary
In a formal statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP expressed deep concern over these allegations. The party described the development as "disturbing and worrisome," highlighting that media reports over the past week have been filled with claims of such inducements. According to the PDP, a subsequent report quoted Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the Supervising National Commissioner for the FCT, as acknowledging the receipt of a land allocation.
The PDP warned that if these allegations are left unaddressed, they could reinforce public suspicion of a "land-for-favour" arrangement. This, in turn, raises serious concerns about possible institutional compromise within INEC, which is crucial for conducting free and fair elections in Nigeria.
Concerns Over Institutional Capture
The party's statement pointed out a curious discrepancy: "It is curious that these land gifts are reportedly given to officials in agencies critical to the conduct of elections, while other key public servants, including healthcare workers, teachers and security personnel who also require accommodation in the capital, are not similarly considered."
This observation led the PDP to argue that the development appears to "connect the dots" in what it described as a strategy for institutional capture. The party emphasized that such perceptions could further erode public confidence in INEC, undermining its credibility and integrity.
Call for Full Disclosure
Therefore, the PDP has urged the leadership of INEC, including its National Chairman, to address these allegations promptly. The party is demanding full disclosure on the matter, especially considering claims that some top officials, including the chairman, may have been beneficiaries of these gifts. Transparency is seen as essential to maintaining trust in the electoral process.
Related Incident: Wike Orders Land Seizure After Building Collapse
In a separate but related development, Minister Nyesom Wike has ordered the immediate seizure of a plot of land in Abuja where a multi-storey hotel under construction collapsed yesterday. During a visit to the site, Wike directed that the developer be arrested and prosecuted for allegedly proceeding with construction without the requisite approvals.
He disclosed that the Department of Development Control had issued several "stop-work" notices to the developer, which were ignored. Although no lives were lost in the incident, some individuals sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.
Wike emphasized that the safety of residents remains paramount, warning that buildings erected outside regulatory supervision often involve the use of substandard materials. He stated that the developer would face criminal prosecution for violating extant building regulations and endangering public safety. Consequently, the FCT Administration (FCTA) has taken over the land, with plans to engage the host community on a suitable public-purpose project for the site.
Wike's Defense of INEC and Media Remarks
Additionally, Minister Wike called on media organizations to uphold accuracy and professionalism in their reportage. He defended INEC decisions on recent political controversies during this address. Wike also addressed the controversy surrounding his widely criticized "shooting at journalist" remark, insisting that the comment was taken out of context and was merely figurative.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the management of DAAR Communications in Abuja, the minister stressed the need for journalists to verify facts before publication. He warned that misleading reports could distort public perception and undermine democratic processes, highlighting the importance of responsible journalism in maintaining a healthy democracy.
