PDP Urges INEC Chairman To Address Alleged Land, Cash Gifts To Officials
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to publicly clarify claims that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, allegedly distributed land and cash gifts to high-ranking officials of the commission. The opposition party stressed that the allegations could severely erode public confidence in the electoral process if left unaddressed.
In a formal statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP cited reports suggesting that Mohammed Kudu Haruna, one of the senior officials involved, admitted receiving a land allocation from the FCT Ministry. According to the PDP, these reports are highly disturbing and appear to corroborate ongoing suspicions of a “land-for-favour” arrangement, implying that certain key institutions may have been targeted for preferential treatment.
The party raised questions about the fairness of the alleged benefits, noting that similar incentives have not been extended to other essential sectors of governance. “It is particularly concerning that officials in agencies critical to the electoral process reportedly received land and cash gifts, while professionals in healthcare, education, and security—whose responsibilities are equally vital to national development—have not benefited in any comparable manner,” the statement read.
The PDP urged INEC to immediately respond to the allegations, calling for transparency not only regarding the officials involved but also any possible implication of the INEC chairman himself. “These reports, emerging at a sensitive political time, risk deepening the erosion of public trust in an electoral commission already grappling with credibility challenges,” the statement emphasized. The party stressed that clarity from the commission is essential to maintain faith in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The opposition party further highlighted the broader implications of the controversy, asserting that public perception of fairness in elections is vital to national stability. Any hint of impropriety, particularly involving high-level officials responsible for conducting elections, could exacerbate public skepticism and weaken confidence in democratic processes. According to the PDP, failing to address such allegations could fuel narratives of institutional bias or manipulation, undermining the integrity of the electoral system.
In urging immediate action, the PDP reminded INEC of its responsibility to uphold the highest standards of neutrality and transparency. The party insisted that electoral bodies must operate beyond reproach, citing the adage that “like Caesar’s wife, an electoral commission must not only be impartial but also appear to be above suspicion.” The PDP argued that proactive communication and full disclosure regarding the allegations would help restore trust and demonstrate the commission’s commitment to accountability.
“This is not merely a question of administrative oversight,” the party said. “It touches on the very legitimacy of the institutions charged with conducting free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria. Any perception that electoral officials have been unduly rewarded or influenced could have long-term consequences for public confidence in governance.”
The PDP also criticized the timing and handling of the matter, suggesting that earlier intervention and clarification by INEC would have prevented unnecessary speculation and media controversy. It warned that failure to act decisively could embolden future misconduct and encourage public cynicism toward electoral processes.
As the debate unfolds, the PDP’s demand underscores the importance of transparency in government operations and the accountability of officials at all levels. By publicly addressing the allegations, the INEC chairman has an opportunity to reaffirm the commission’s commitment to integrity, fairness, and impartiality in administering elections across Nigeria.
In conclusion, the PDP reiterated its position that the allegations of land and cash gifts must be investigated thoroughly, with full disclosure provided to the public. The party called on Professor Joash Amupitan to immediately clarify the situation, ensuring that the commission’s reputation remains intact and that citizens’ trust in the electoral process is preserved. The PDP emphasized that restoring confidence in INEC is crucial not only for upcoming elections but for the long-term credibility of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
