WIKE DEFENDS EFCC-PROBED POLITICIANS IN CAMPAIGNS

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has defended the participation of people under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in political campaigns.

Wike made the comments during a media parley on Wednesday while responding to criticism over the inclusion of a person facing an EFCC investigation in President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 campaign structure.

The former Rivers State governor argued that being investigated by the anti-graft agency does not automatically prevent an individual from taking part in political activities or canvassing for votes.

He questioned what he described as a double standard, noting that some people who have faced criminal allegations have previously contested elections and even won political offices.

Wike also argued that even a person serving a prison sentence could express political support and encourage others to vote for a particular candidate.

His comments followed controversy over the inclusion of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, in the campaign structure for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid. Edu was listed as Director of Women Mobilisation and has been under EFCC investigation following her suspension as minister in January 2024.

The controversy has prompted debate over the ethical considerations surrounding the involvement of individuals facing investigations in political campaigns.

Wike, however, maintained that an ongoing investigation should not by itself be treated as a disqualification from political participation.