A leaked telephone conversation has surfaced allegedly involving the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, and a political intermediary identified as Mahmoud Dan Larabawa. The recording suggests a coordinated effort to provide political cover for the former Director of NAPIMS, Bala Wunti, who is currently embroiled in a Senate probe over the alleged disappearance of ₦210 trillion.

The exchange, conducted in Hausa and first reported by SaharaReporters, outlines a strategy to integrate Wunti into the ruling party to facilitate a gubernatorial bid in Bauchi State a move sources claim is designed to secure political immunity and stall accountability.

Allegations of Presidential Involvement

During the call, Dan Larabawa claimed that President Bola Tinubu is personally aware of Wunti’s situation, asserting that the matter had been discussed privately with the President on four separate occasions.

“We are praying God helps the President because for four times he has been working on this matter personally,” Dan Larabawa stated in the recording, adding that the President reportedly expressed optimism that the issue would be "concluded" within the month.

Strategic Political Integration

The conversation focused heavily on the logistics of Wunti’s formal entry into the APC. Dan Larabawa urged the party chairman to expedite documentation for Wunti, requesting a "brief A4 paper" as a preliminary step before the formal issuance of a membership card.

While Chairman Yilwatda noted that Wunti had technically obtained a party card in January, the dialogue suggested that more "strategic arrangements" were necessary to position him for a higher office or specific political role.

The Bauchi Calculations

The two men discussed Wunti’s purported dominance in Bauchi State politics, with Yilwatda agreeing that the state’s political structure "belongs to him." The conversation touched upon:

The 2027 Elections: Aligning Wunti’s interests with future electoral goals.

Ministerial Rumors: Dan Larabawa dismissed public speculation that Wunti might be appointed Minister of Health as "mere grammar," suggesting that the real plan involved a more strategic political placement.

Discreet Receptions: To avoid public backlash amidst the ongoing financial scandal, Yilwatda suggested that Wunti’s formal reception into the party could be handled "quietly" rather than through a public event.

Background of the Scandal

Dr. Bala Wunti, along with four others, is currently facing intense scrutiny following allegations regarding the mismanagement or looting of ₦210 trillion during his tenure at NAPIMS. Critics and insiders suggest that his sudden pivot toward a Bauchi State governorship is an "immunity-seeking ambition" intended to shield him from the ongoing Senate investigation.

As of the time of reporting, the APC leadership and the Presidency have not issued official statements regarding the authenticity of the leaked audio or the allegations of a "protection plot."