Tinubu Directs ICPC to Probe PFIPC Over Forged Appointment Claims

The President has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the PFIPC and all related matters. According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the ICPC must conclude the investigation within 30 days and submit a detailed report to the President.

The controversy surrounding the PFIPC started when one Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew presented himself as the Director-General of the so-called PFIPC, claiming to be a presidential appointee. However, it was discovered that the PFIPC is not a real entity, and Matthew's claims were false.

The ICPC will investigate the forged appointment letters and official government documents, as well as the use of false claims of presidential appointment to seek diplomatic support and visa facilitation. The commission will also examine the origin and use of forged official documents, the processes through which official recognition or diplomatic support may have been sought or obtained, and the role of any public officer, private individual, financial institution, intermediary, or other person or entity that may have facilitated, enabled, or participated in the alleged scheme.

President Tinubu has emphasized that the integrity of the Presidency and federal institutions must be protected against impersonation, forgery, abuse of official identity, and the exploitation of weaknesses within the public service. He has directed that all persons found culpable be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

The ICPC will investigate the activities of the principal suspect and other collaborators, as well as the broader circumstances that may have enabled a fictitious body and a false claim of presidential appointment to gain an appearance of official legitimacy. The commission will also identify weaknesses in government and institutional procedures that may have been exploited and recommend immediate measures to prevent a recurrence.

The President has instructed all ministries, departments, and agencies of the Federal Government to provide the ICPC with all relevant information, records, and assistance required for the timely completion of the investigation.