The Northern Awareness Network (NAN), has supported the call by the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso over anti-party conduct and alleged misappropriation of party campaign funds.
Chairman of NAN, Salihu Suleiman, described the allegations against Kwankwaso as serious, stressing that they are not only revealing and embarrassing but pose a threat to the integrity of political leaders in northern Nigeria.
Recall that a faction of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) dragged the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and 13 others to the EFCC over an alleged misappropriation of over N2bn.
The faction, in a petition by its national secretary, Oginni Olaposi, alleged that there was mismanagement of the party’s fund.
Olaposi, in the petition, alleged that the estimated sum was made from the sales of nomination forms, membership subscription fees, and donations were not accounted for by expelled leadership of the party.
However, Suleiman highlighted the need for a thorough investigation into the matter, to ensure principles of good governance and accountability within the political landscape.
He said if the allegations in the petition EFCC by the NNPP secretary is proven to be true, it could tarnish not only the reputation of Kwankwaso but also that of the northern leadership tradition as a whole.
The group called for accountability and transparency in political leadership, stressing that no individual, regardless of their stature, should be above the law.
NAN called on the EFCC to thoroughly investigate the allegations and ensure that justice is served in accordance with the law. The group urged all political leaders to act with integrity and transparency in order to rebuild public trust and confidence in the political process.
It called on all stakeholders in the political arena to support the efforts of the NNPP and the EFCC in carrying out a comprehensive investigation into these allegations.
“The NAN stands firm in its commitment to promoting transparency, integrity, and ethical behavior in our political system. We believe that only through upholding these principles can we build a truly just and equitable society for all Nigerians,” Suleiman said.