EFCC Begins Investigation into Alleged ₦2.5bn Fraud Involving Kwankwaso

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced an investigation into the alleged misappropriation of ₦2.5 billion in New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) campaign funds for the 2023 elections. This includes the failure of the Kwankwaso-led National Working Committee to pay party agents who worked during the presidential and governorship elections.

The anti-graft agency has invited the National Secretary of the party, Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday, to provide evidence supporting the allegations against Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and his Private Secretary, Mrs. Folashade Aliu. Aliu is alleged to have been instrumental in the misappropriation of party funds through secret campaign and donation accounts.

According to sources, Oginni’s petition also implicates the signatories to an NNPP bank account: Prof. Rufai Alkali, Abba Kawu, and Dipo Olayokun. The EFCC is considering probing the sudden wealth of Dipo Olayokun, including his acquisition of properties in prime areas of Abuja within two years of his tenure as a signatory to the NNPP’s account.

Confirming the development in a telephone interview with Vanguard in Abeokuta, Comrade Oginni said he was at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja last Wednesday to provide statements and clarifications regarding the petition. He alleged Senator Kwankwaso and his team were involved in a ₦2.5 billion fraud.

“I was invited by the EFCC and I honored the invitation. I was satisfied with the professionalism of EFCC officers and answered questions related to the petition without any harassment or intimidation. They want to ensure that the allegations are true and without ill motives. We are confident that Nigeria is in safe hands with these EFCC officers who are committed to eliminating corruption at high levels,” Oginni stated.

With the confirmed invitation of the NNPP National Secretary, it is clear that the investigation into the allegations against Senator Kwankwaso has begun, and his own invitation by the EFCC to clear his name is imminent.