Breaking: Tinubu orders ICPC to probe ’fake presidential agency’

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to launch a comprehensive investigation into the activities of the so-called Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council after authorities discovered the body was never established by the Federal Government.

The President directed the anti-corruption agency to conclude its investigation within 30 days and submit a detailed report, describing the matter as a serious case involving alleged impersonation, forgery and abuse of government identity.

Fictitious agency uncovered

According to a State House statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council has no legal existence and was never created by any law, executive approval, presidential instrument or other lawful act of government.

The Presidency said the discovery has raised concerns over how the non-existent agency allegedly operated while presenting itself as an official government institution.

Fake DG, forged documents

The statement identified one Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew as the individual who allegedly presented himself as the Director-General of the council and falsely claimed to be a presidential appointee.

President Tinubu directed the ICPC to investigate the alleged use of forged appointment letters and other official government documents, as well as attempts to obtain official recognition, diplomatic support and visa facilitation through the false claim of presidential appointment.

Investigators are also expected to establish whether other individuals or organisations collaborated in the alleged scheme.

Bank accounts and funds under probe

The investigation will extend to the alleged opening and operation of multiple bank accounts in the names of purported government agencies using forged documents.

The ICPC has also been directed to trace the source and movement of any funds linked to the activities and determine whether public officials, private individuals, financial institutions or intermediaries played any role in facilitating the alleged operation.

MDAs ordered to cooperate

President Tinubu instructed all ministries, departments and agencies of the Federal Government to provide the ICPC with all relevant records and assistance required to ensure the investigation is completed within the stipulated 30-day period.

He also asked the commission to identify weaknesses in government procedures that may have been exploited and recommend urgent measures to prevent similar abuses in the future.

President vows accountability

The President said the integrity of the Presidency and institutions of the Federal Government must be protected against impersonation, forgery, abuse of official identity and other fraudulent practices capable of undermining public confidence.

He directed that anyone found culpable at the end of the investigation should be prosecuted in accordance with the law, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to accountability and the protection of public institutions.