Fake presidential council in Nigeria; president pursues accused
Written by: Ayman Ragab
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has directed the “Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission” (ICPC) to investigate the activities of the so-called “Presidential Council for Promoting External Intervention” (PFIPC).
This directive came after the discovery that this council (PFIPC) is a phantom entity lacking any legal basis, presidential approval, or formal establishment by the Nigerian government.
Tinubu also ordered the committee to complete the investigation within 30 days and submit a comprehensive report to him.
The main suspect's escape
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, a certain Adeniyi Adewale Matthew has – allegedly – presented himself as the Director-General of this Council (PFIPC).
The statement indicated that Matthew falsely claimed to have been appointed by a presidential decree, and that the committee will investigate alleged forgery of appointment letters and other government documents related to this fictitious council.
Reports indicate that Matthew, who is being pursued by police, has gone into hiding, denying any wrongdoing.
Reports said he pledged to appear in court to defend his integrity.
Use the false presidential appointment clause
A statement from the presidential advisor mentioned that the committee will also investigate allegations that the suspect used a false presidential appointment to seek official recognition, diplomatic support, and facilitate visa acquisition.
According to the statement, the investigation will also address the issue of opening multiple bank accounts in the names of alleged government entities using forged documents. The president also directed the committee to investigate not only the main suspect and his accomplices but also the circumstances that allowed this fictitious entity to appear as a legitimate one.
The statement added that the investigation will include the source of the forged official documents and their use, the mechanisms through which recognition or diplomatic support was sought and actually obtained, the functioning of related bank accounts, as well as investigating the source and movement of any funds related to the alleged scheme.
According to the statement, the President directed the Committee to determine whether any public officials, individuals, financial institutions, or intermediaries facilitated or participated in these activities.
President Tinubu also tasked the “Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission” (ICPC) to identify lapses in government procedures that may have been exploited, and to make recommendations on measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
The statement indicated that President Tinubu directed all ministries, departments, and government agencies to cooperate fully with the committee by providing all relevant and required records and information for the investigation.
President Tinubu emphasized the necessity of protecting the integrity of the presidency and government institutions from impersonation, forgery, and the misuse of official identity, stressing that anyone proven to be involved in such acts must be prosecuted and tried according to the law.
