Tinubu Orders Investigation into PFIPC Allegations
President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) to perform a comprehensive investigation into the Presidential Promotion of Foreign Intervention Council (PFIPC) and associated matters.
Public Outcry Over Alleged Forgery
This directive comes in response to significant public concern regarding allegations that forged federal documents were used to appoint Mr. Adeniyi Adeyemi Mathews as the Executive Director of the PFIPC. He is further accused of utilizing falsified documents to secure office space in the Federal Secretariat in Abuja and to open bank accounts under the guise of his organization, including with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Legal Accountability Ensured
President Tinubu emphasized that anyone found guilty of these offenses will face stringent legal consequences. In a statement, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Assistant to the President on Intelligence and Strategy, noted that the President has mandated the investigation be completed and a comprehensive report submitted within 30 days.
Discovery of Fictitious Entity
Onanuga highlighted the discovery of a bogus PFIPC that lacks any official establishment by the Federal Government of Nigeria or foundation in law, presidential endorsement, or executive approval. He stated, “Adeniyi Adeyemi Mathews falsely represented himself as the Executive Director of PFIPC, claiming to have received a presidential appointment.”
Scope of the Investigation
The President has directed the ICPC to probe various issues, including the alleged forgery of appointment letters and other official government documents, as well as the misuse of false presidential appointments to obtain diplomatic assistance. This encompasses everything from seeking official recognition to visa facilitation.
Exploring Broader Implications
The inquiry will also assess the conduct of key individuals and any collaborators involved, while investigating how fictitious entities may have been allowed to present false claims of presidential appointments with an appearance of official legitimacy. The ICPC will explore the origins and usage of false documents, the processes involved in obtaining government approval, and the operation of the implicated bank accounts.
Recommendations for Future Safeguards
Additionally, the ICPC is expected to identify vulnerabilities within governmental and institutional frameworks that may have been exploited and recommend immediate measures to prevent similar incidents from recurring. All federal departments and agencies are required to furnish the ICPC with relevant information and support necessary for the swift completion of the investigation.
Commitment to Integrity
President Tinubu reiterated the importance of preserving the integrity of the presidency and federal institutions against impersonation, forgery, and the exploitation of systemic weaknesses within public services. He firmly believes that the ongoing investigation will help restore public confidence in the government’s accountability and transparency.
