Tinubu Orders ICPC Probe Into PFIPC, Gives 30-Day Deadline

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the activities of a purported “Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council” (PFIPC) and other related issues surrounding the group.

According to a statement released by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the directive requires the ICPC to conclude the investigation and submit a detailed report to the President within 30 days.

The move followed the discovery of the alleged existence of the PFIPC, a body the Federal Government said was never created or authorised through any law, presidential directive, executive approval, or official government instrument.

Reports indicate that one Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew allegedly presented himself as the Director-General of the organisation and claimed to be a presidential appointee, despite no official record recognising such an appointment.

The ICPC has been mandated to investigate allegations involving forged appointment letters and government documents, the alleged misuse of a false presidential appointment claim to obtain official recognition and diplomatic assistance, as well as the opening of multiple bank accounts linked to the purported government entity using questionable documents.

The commission is also expected to examine the activities of individuals and organisations connected to the matter, including how the alleged fictitious body gained an appearance of legitimacy and whether any public officials, private individuals, financial institutions, or intermediaries played roles in facilitating the scheme.

The investigation will further look into the source and movement of funds connected to the alleged activities, the handling of official documents, and possible weaknesses within government systems that may have been exploited.

President Tinubu has directed all ministries, departments, and agencies of the Federal Government to provide necessary records and assistance to the ICPC to ensure a speedy and thorough investigation.

The President stressed that the credibility of the Presidency and government institutions must be protected from impersonation, forgery, misuse of official identity, and any attempt to exploit gaps within public service procedures.

He further ordered that anyone found responsible for wrongdoing should face appropriate legal action in line with existing laws.