Defections, Denials, and EFCC: Politics on Trial

In Nigeria's politically charged atmosphere, where shifting allegiances can make or break power blocs, every defection is a headline—and every meeting, a potential conspiracy. This reality came to the fore once again following allegations by Paul Ibe, the longtime media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who accused Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), of holding a secret meeting with two governors just before their dramatic defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

- BY NIYI JACOBS

The allegation, made during an interview on Channels Television, was explosive, even by Nigeria's standards. Ibe didn't provide names but claimed the meeting took place at a government lodge in a South-South state. He said both the incumbent governor and his predecessor were present, as well as the Solicitor-General of the Federation.

These claims, arriving at a moment when the APC is witnessing an influx of opposition figures, touched a raw nerve. They were quickly and sternly denied—not just by the EFCC but also by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

But beyond the denials and outrage lies a bigger story: the slow erosion of public trust in democratic institutions, the weaponization of anti-corruption agencies, and a gathering political storm ahead of 2027.

Paul Ibe's accusation, though lacking specifics, sent ripples through the political class. He alleged that 48 hours before two governors switched political allegiance from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, they met secretly with the EFCC chairman and the Solicitor-General.

His comments were made in the context of growing concern that Nigeria is edging dangerously close to becoming a one-party state. Several high-profile defections, particularly from the PDP to the APC, have raised suspicions about the motivations behind such moves.

While Ibe did not name names, his reference to the South-South zone—and the timing—coincides with the recent defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa. Both men left the PDP for the APC in April. Similarly, Akwa Ibom's Governor Umo Eno has expressed interest in dumping the PDP, citing concerns about his political future in a weakened opposition.

In this context, Ibe's claims seemed aimed at suggesting that these defections were not organic, but orchestrated—perhaps under pressure, perhaps with incentives.