Wike’s Alleged Threat to INEC Officials: Old Audio Resurfaces, Sparks Fresh Debate
Wike’s Alleged Threat to INEC Officials: Old Audio Resurfaces, Sparks Fresh Debate
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
A controversial audio recording allegedly featuring the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, making threats against officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has resurfaced online, igniting heated reactions across social media.
The recording, which was widely circulated on Friday, is said to capture a heated phone conversation in which voices attributed to Wike and others appeared to discuss electoral irregularities and threats against INEC officials who allegedly refused to cooperate. The clip has now been uploaded on various platforms, including Facebook, where political activist Omoyele Sowore shared it, fuelling fresh debate about electoral integrity in Nigeria.
Fact-Check: Recording Dates Back to 2016
Investigations by Akahi News gathered that the audio is not new. The recording first surfaced in December 2016 during the Rivers State legislative rerun elections. At the time, it was published by Sahara Reporters, sparking widespread controversy and prompting denials from the Rivers State government, which claimed the audio was “doctored” and “politically motivated.”
Multiple fact-checking organisations, including Reuters and PesaCheck, have since confirmed that the clip originated from the 2016 election period and has repeatedly resurfaced over the years, often without context, creating the impression of a recent development.
Reactions and Political Fallout
The circulation of the audio has drawn mixed reactions, with critics citing it as evidence of Nigeria’s lingering challenges with electoral credibility, while supporters argue that its re-emergence is a smear campaign aimed at discrediting the FCT Minister.
As of press time, there has been no fresh statement from Wike or INEC concerning the latest recirculation of the recording. However, past responses from Rivers State officials described the audio as “fabricated” and “designed to tarnish the image of the former governor.”
Full Audio Available for Public Listening
For transparency, Akahi News will host the full audio clip on our platform, allowing readers to listen and form their own opinions.
This latest development highlights Nigeria’s ongoing struggles with electoral reforms, political accountability, and the role of digital platforms in shaping public discourse.
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