INEC Faces Pressure Over Alleged Gifts from Wike
By Wellington Jopelo
The Peoples Democratic Party has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission to urgently respond to allegations that some of its officials 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 described the claims as troubling, warning that they could damage public trust in the electoral body.
The PDP said reports suggesting that senior INEC officials benefited from land allocations and financial inducements have raised serious concerns about the integrity of the commission.
According to the party, failure to address the allegations could strengthen public suspicion of a possible “land-for-favour” arrangement and suggest institutional compromise.
It also questioned why such benefits would allegedly be extended to officials of agencies critical to elections, while other public servants are excluded.
The party warned that the development could further weaken confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process if not properly clarified.
It therefore called on INEC leadership to provide full disclosure and address the allegations directly.
Meanwhile, Wike has ordered the immediate takeover of a plot of land in Abuja where a hotel under construction recently collapsed.
The minister directed that the developer be arrested and prosecuted, stating that the project continued despite multiple stop-work notices from authorities.
He stressed that the action was necessary to enforce building regulations and protect public safety, noting that some persons were injured in the incident.
Wike also said the land would be repurposed for public use after engagement with the host community.
He further urged media organisations to prioritise accuracy in reporting, insisting that misleading information can distort public perception.