The Peoples Democratic Party has called for a thorough investigation into allegations that senior officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission received land and cash gifts from a serving minister in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The opposition party warned that the claims, which surfaced recently and continue to generate public debate, could undermine confidence in the credibility and independence of the electoral body.
PDP raises concerns
In a statement issued by its factional National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the party described the allegations as disturbing and urged INEC to address them with transparency.
The PDP said reports suggesting that a cabinet minister allegedly offered land and financial incentives to senior officials of the commission raise serious questions about the integrity of the electoral system.
It added that the development appears to reinforce growing concerns about possible attempts to influence electoral institutions ahead of future polls.
Questions over selective benefits
The party also queried why such alleged benefits were directed at election officials, noting that workers in other critical sectors such as healthcare, education and security had not received similar considerations.
According to the PDP, the situation fuels suspicion about the motive behind the reported gestures.
Call for transparency
The opposition party urged the INEC leadership to publicly clarify the situation, including allegations that its chairman may have been implicated.
It stressed that failure to address the matter decisively could further weaken public trust in the commission.
Warning on credibility
The PDP emphasised that INEC must uphold the highest standards of transparency and impartiality, particularly at a time when confidence in democratic institutions remains crucial.
It maintained that the commission must not only act fairly but also be seen to do so, warning that unresolved allegations could cast a shadow over future elections.
The party called for swift action to investigate the claims and reassure Nigerians of the integrity of the electoral process.
