The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has launched an investigation into the alleged misappropriation of campaign funds by the New Nigeria People’s Party during the 2023 elections.
The investigation also covers the failure of the party’s National Working Committee, led by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to pay party agents who worked in the presidential and governorship elections across the country.
According to reliable sources from Vanguard, the anti-graft agency has summoned the party’s National Secretary, Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday, to provide evidence supporting the fraud allegations against Senator Kwankwaso and his Private Secretary, Mrs. Folashade Aliu. Mrs. Aliu is accused of being the conduit for Kwankwaso’s alleged misappropriation of party funds through secret campaign and donation accounts.
Oginni’s petition also implicates other signatories to the United Bank for Africa account of the NNPP, including Prof. Rufai Alkali, Abba Kawu, and Dipo Olayokun. The sources indicate that the EFCC may investigate Dipo Olayokun’s sudden acquisition of properties in prime areas of Abuja within two years of becoming a signatory to the NNPP’s account.
In a telephone conversation with Vanguard in Abeokuta, Comrade Oginni confirmed his visit to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja last Wednesday. He was invited to provide statements and clarifications on the petition he submitted on behalf of the party, alleging a N2.5 billion fraud involving Senator Kwankwaso and his team.
“Truly, I was invited by the EFCC. I honoured the invitation and I was satisfied with the professionalism of EFCC officers. I answered questions related to the petition I signed on behalf of NNPP without any harassment or intimidation. They want to be sure that the allegations are true and without any ill motives. We are very sure that Nigeria is in a very safe stance with these crops of EFCC officers who are ready to get rid of corruption at Nigeria high places without sacred cows,” Oginni said.
With the National Secretary of the NNPP confirming his invitation, it is evident that the EFCC’s investigation into the allegations against Senator Kwankwaso has begun, and the senator may soon be summoned by the agency to clear his name.
