52 CSOs Demand Probe of FCT Minister Wike Over Undeclared Assets, Illicit Enrichment

A network of Nigerian civil society organisations working on anti-corruption, transparency, and accountability has called for an immediate and impartial investigation into the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over serious allegations of asset concealment, illicit enrichment, and potential violations of Nigeria’s asset declaration laws.

In a statement jointly signed by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), and 50 other CSOs, urged key anti-corruption agencies the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), the National Judicial Council (NJC), and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to act swiftly, without regard to political status or affiliations.

The statement firmly asserted that no public official, regardless of rank or influence, should be considered above the law.

“Selective enforcement corrodes public trust and undermines the legitimacy of Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework,” the coalition stated.

The CSOs emphasised the critical role of the Code of Conduct Bureau in upholding integrity in public service, calling on the body to ensure its processes are protected from political interference particularly from politically exposed persons whose asset declarations must be verified and monitored throughout their tenure, not only at entry or exit.

According to the statement, credible reports link the Minister and his spouse, Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike of the Court of Appeal, to alleged undeclared assets. These, the coalition said, include three high-value lakeside properties in Winter Springs, Seminole County, Florida, acquired between 2021 and 2023 and allegedly transferred to their children.

“Further concerns include the use of shell structures, luxury vehicles, and property acquisitions in Abuja allegedly allocated to close family members,” they added.

The network also referenced long-standing allegations involving the diversion of $300 million earmarked for environmental remediation in Ogoniland, which was purportedly redirected into private ventures, including a retail chain in Port Harcourt.

“Additionally, Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the FCT, has accused the Minister of unlawful land allocations within Abuja, with investigative reports suggesting that several premium plots were allocated to the Minister’s relatives.

These allegations, if substantiated, represent not only violations of Nigeria’s anti-corruption statutes but a profound betrayal of public trust,” the coalition stated.

To this end, the network is calling for a full audit of Mr Wike’s asset declarations as both Governor and Minister, a forensic investigation of financial transactions linked to him and his immediate family, and transparent publication of investigative findings, followed by legal action where violations are confirmed.

“The handling of this case will serve as a litmus test for Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions and their independence. The network therefore strongly calls on the EFCC, ICPC, CCB, NJC, and FIRS to immediately open coordinated inquiries, publish clear timelines, and communicate investigative procedures transparently to the public.

A failure to act decisively will embolden corrupt practices, while a transparent investigation will restore legitimacy to Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions.”

The network further urged international watchdogs, development partners, and the global transparency community to closely monitor the process. Demonstrating credible accountability in this case, it argued, will not only reinforce Nigeria’s anti-corruption commitments but also send a strong global signal that public service in Nigeria is anchored in integrity and equality before the law.

Noting that the case goes beyond legal implications, the network said it reflects the behavioural consequences of impunity in governance.

“When public officials perceive that accountability institutions are hesitant or selective in enforcement, corruption becomes a rational choice. Conversely, consistent and impartial enforcement creates a deterrent effect, shifting norms towards compliance.

Anti-corruption is therefore not only a legal obligation but also a behavioural signal it defines expectations about what is tolerated and what is sanctioned. Nigeria cannot afford a governance environment where political stature shields misconduct,” the statement state.

(Arise tv)