By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the activities of the fake Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC). The President issued the directive after discovering that the council never existed under any Federal Government approval. He ordered the investigation to uncover those behind the scheme and submit a comprehensive report within 30 days.
President Demands Comprehensive Investigation
President Tinubu instructed the ICPC to conduct a detailed investigation into every aspect of the alleged fraud.
According to the Presidency, the so-called Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council has no legal backing. It was never created by any law, executive approval, presidential directive or official government instrument.
The President stressed that the investigation must establish how the fictitious organisation gained an appearance of legitimacy.
Fake Director-General Under Investigation
The investigation will focus on one Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew, who allegedly presented himself as the Director-General of the fake council.
Authorities said he falsely claimed to be a presidential appointee. Investigators will also identify every individual who collaborated in the alleged scheme.
ICPC to Probe Forged Documents and Bank Accounts
The President directed the anti-corruption agency to investigate forged appointment letters and other fake government documents.
The Commission will also examine claims that the suspects used the false presidential appointment to seek official recognition and diplomatic support, including visa facilitation.
In addition, investigators will scrutinise the opening of multiple bank accounts in the names of purported government agencies using allegedly forged documents.
Investigation to Cover Financial Transactions
The ICPC will trace the origin and movement of funds connected to the alleged operation.
The investigation will also determine whether any public officials, financial institutions, intermediaries or private individuals helped facilitate the scheme.
Furthermore, the Commission will review how official recognition or diplomatic support may have been requested or obtained.
Tinubu Seeks Stronger Government Safeguards
President Tinubu directed the ICPC to identify weaknesses within government institutions that may have allowed the fraud to occur.
He also ordered the Commission to recommend immediate measures that will prevent similar abuses in the future.
Meanwhile, all ministries, departments and agencies have received instructions to cooperate fully with investigators. They must provide all relevant records and information whenever lawfully requested.
Presidency Warns Against Impersonation
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the Presidency and federal institutions.
He said government would not tolerate impersonation, forgery, abuse of official identity or the exploitation of public institutions.
The President also directed that everyone found culpable should face the full weight of the law.
