Wike Defends Inclusion of EFCC-Probed Individuals in Campaigns

Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, defended the inclusion of individuals under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in political campaigns. During a media parley aired on Channels Television, Wike stated that being probed does not prevent someone from canvassing votes.

He criticized the perceived double standards in scrutinizing political campaign participants, arguing that individuals facing EFCC investigations but not charged can still engage in political activities. Wike referenced past instances where individuals with criminal allegations successfully contested elections.

He also claimed that even prisoners could canvass for votes. His remarks were prompted by the inclusion of Betta Edu, who was appointed as Director of Women Mobilisation in Bola Tinubu's APC Presidential Campaign Council, despite being under EFCC investigation for financial impropriety.

Kemi Asekun-Shittu, an APC campaign council spokesperson, defended Edu's position, stating she had not been found guilty of any offense.