CSOs demand Wike’s investigation over alleged undeclared assets

Omeiza Bilal

A network of Nigerian civil society organizations 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 joint statement, the network urged key anti-corruption bodies, 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 strongly noted 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 said.

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

According to the statement, there are credible reports linking the minister and his spouse, Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike of the Court of Appeal, to substantial undeclared assets. These 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.

The network also referenced long-standing allegations involving the diversion of $300 million earmarked for environmental remediation in Ogoniland, 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 relatives of the minister.

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

The network is calling for: A full audit of Mr. Wike’s asset declarations as governor and minister; A forensic investigation of financial transactions linked to him and his immediate family; 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 urges international watchdogs, development partners, and the global transparency community to closely monitor the process. Demonstrating credible accountability in this case will not only reinforce Nigeria’s anti-corruption commitments but also send a strong signal globally that public service in Nigeria is anchored on integrity and equity before the law.

“Beyond the legal dimensions, this case reflects the behavioural consequences of impunity in governance. When public officials perceive that accountability institutions are hesitant or selective in enforcement, it makes corruption a rational choice. Conversely, consistent and impartial enforcement creates a deterrent effect, shifting norms toward 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 network explained.

In light of the call for a thorough investigation into allegations against Minister Nyesom Wike and his family, this moment must also be leveraged to build a broad national consensus on tackling corruption among politically exposed persons (PEPs).

“We therefore recommend: Unified Dialogue: Convening a multi-stakeholder forum, including CSOs, media, political parties, and international partners, to address the implications of these allegations and the broader challenge of corruption among PEPs, while promoting transparency and mutual accountability; Public Awareness: Launching nationwide campaigns to highlight the dangers of corruption, emphasize the importance of truthful asset declarations, and equip citizens with knowledge of their right to demand accountability,” they said.

By adopting these steps, Nigeria can transform this high-profile case into a strong opportunity for systemic reform, reinforcing the principle of equal application of the law.

Anti-corruption must be understood as both a legal and behavioural commitment. Institutions must rise above politics and enforce the law consistently. Nigeria must demonstrate that its laws apply equally to all, regardless of office or influence.