The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has interviewed Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, in connection with an investigation into the alleged fraudulent operations of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC). Gbajabiamila voluntarily appeared before the anti-graft agency on Monday at its Abuja headquarters, where he provided a statement. The commission confirmed he was not arrested but responded to an official invitation as part of the probe.
President Tinubu ordered the investigation after it emerged that the PFIPC operated for about two years from offices in the Federal Secretariat without legal recognition or presidential approval. The council was reportedly headed by Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew, who identified himself as its Director-General. The Presidency has since disowned the organisation, stating it was not established or authorised by the Federal Government. ICPC spokesperson Okor Odey said the commission is still gathering facts and will disclose further findings as the investigation progresses.
The probe aims to determine how the alleged council accessed government facilities, who facilitated its activities, and whether public officials were involved. The ICPC has not named any suspects beyond Matthew, nor has it alleged Gbajabiamila's direct involvement in the council's formation or operations. The agency emphasized that the invitation was part of routine fact-finding and not an accusation.
Femi Gbajabiamila was questioned over an entity the Presidency says it never authorised, yet operated in a federal building for years. If the council used government premises without detection, it raises questions about oversight within the Federal Secretariat. The fact that the Chief of Staff was invited for questioning while the alleged director remains the only named figure suggests the probe is still narrowing its focus.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
