Alleged Land, Cash Gifts: PDP Demands Clarification from INEC

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to clarify allegations that senior officials of the commission received land and cash gifts from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike.

In a press statement issued on April 7, 2026, the PDP, through its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, expressed concern over media reports suggesting that the FCT Minister had allocated land and provided cash incentives to top INEC officials.

The party referenced a report in which Mr. Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Supervising National Commissioner for the FCT, was quoted as admitting to receiving a land allocation, a development the PDP described as “disturbing and worrisome.”

According to the opposition party, the allegations appear to support ongoing speculation about a possible “land-for-favour” arrangement aimed at influencing key institutions, particularly those connected to the electoral process.

The PDP questioned why such benefits were allegedly extended to officials in election-related agencies, while workers in other critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and security—whose roles also require residence in the nation’s capital—have not reportedly received similar allocations.

The party further urged the Chairman of INEC to address the allegations directly, noting that he has also been mentioned as a possible beneficiary in the reports.

It warned that the claims, if left unaddressed, could further erode public confidence in the electoral body, which it said already faces credibility challenges.

The PDP stressed the need for INEC to act with urgency in providing clarity on the issue, emphasizing that the commission must uphold transparency and impartiality in both its conduct and public engagements.

It added that, as the country’s electoral umpire, INEC must remain above reproach at all times to maintain the trust of Nigerians.