The EFCC is Likely to Arrest Kwankwaso as it Investigates NNPP Campaign Funds.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly commenced an investigation into the campaign financing of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). This action follows the recent detention of Ifeanyi Okowa, the former governor of Delta State and vice presidential candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 general elections, on charges of mismanagement of campaign funds. The current inquiry into the NNPP is said to be focusing on the party’s presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, with sources indicating that this may be an effort to diminish his political standing in anticipation of the 2027 elections. According to a source who spoke to Daily Nigerian, “The EFCC has been instructed to promptly initiate a case against the national leader of NNPP, either to summon him or to conduct a raid to address allegations of mismanagement of the 2023 campaign funds, which were raised by certain disgruntled members who have since been expelled from the party.” In June, Justice Yusuf Ubale Mohammed of the Kano State High Court issued a ruling prohibiting the EFCC from taking any action against Kwankwaso concerning these allegations. Nevertheless, sources indicate that the anti-corruption agency may choose to overlook this ruling due to purported “pressure from higher authorities.” The renewed investigation appears to be linked to Kwankwaso’s recent remarks, which were interpreted as critical of President Tinubu’s alleged aspirations in the northern region. During a speech at the convocation ceremony of Skyline University in Kano, Mr. Kwankwaso commented on supposed efforts to exert control over the area, stating, “Lagos would not permit Kano to select its own emir.” Additionally, observers have noted the increasing political influence of the NNPP leader, particularly highlighted during his daughter’s recent wedding in Kano, which drew a considerable number of opposition leaders who remained in the city for over 48 hours, engaging in extensive discussions with Mr. Kwankwaso.