In an update published by **Vanguard**, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally demanded an independent investigation into allegations that senior officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) received land and cash gifts from a sitting federal minister. The opposition party warned that such “favors” could compromise the neutrality of the electoral body ahead of future polls.
The PDP’s factional National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, stated that the reports have created a “miasma of failure” around the commission. The party is calling for a full disclosure of any property transfers or financial transactions between the Ministry and INEC staff to ensure the integrity of the democratic process remains intact.
**Daily Post** reported that “the PDP is demanding transparency to restore public trust,” while **Leadership** quoted a civil society leader stating, “any perceived bias within INEC is a direct threat to the 2027 electoral cycle.”
**Echotitbits take:** Allegations of “gift-giving” between the executive and the umpire are a recurring nightmare in Nigerian politics. Even if no laws were technically broken, the optics are disastrous. Expect INEC to issue a stern denial, but the pressure for a formal inquiry will likely mount in the National Assembly.
Source: The Cable – https://www.thecable.ng/turaki-led-pdp-asks-amupitan-to-address-alleged-land-cash-gifts-to-inec-officials-by-wike/, April 8, 2026
Photo credit: The Cable
