President Bola Tinubu has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the activities of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), which has been described in some quarters as a “fake” or unauthorised agency.
The directive comes amid growing controversy over the council’s operations and recruitment activities.
Tinubu Directs Investigation into PFIPC
According to reports, the President has given the ICPC a 30-day deadline to submit its findings on the matter. The move follows allegations that the council, which claims to promote foreign investment and intervention in Nigeria, may not have been properly established or authorised.
Adeniyi Adeyemi, who has presented himself as the Director-General of the PFIPC, has stated that he is ready to cooperate with the ICPC investigation.
Background to the Controversy
The PFIPC gained public attention after reports emerged that the Federal Government had approved the recruitment of 300 staff members for the agency. Critics have questioned the legitimacy of the council, arguing that it was not established through the proper legal channels.
The development has raised concerns about accountability and the proliferation of agencies operating under the presidency without clear mandates.
ICPC to Investigate Operations and Recruitment
The ICPC is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the establishment of the council, its recruitment processes, and how it has been funded. The anti-graft agency has been tasked with determining whether any laws were breached in the process.
President Tinubu’s intervention is being viewed by some observers as a step towards ensuring transparency in the operations of agencies linked to the presidency.
The controversy has generated significant discussion on social media, with many Nigerians calling for a thorough investigation. Some have questioned how such an agency could have operated without proper oversight, while others have demanded accountability from those involved in its activities.
The outcome of the ICPC probe is expected to provide clarity on the status of the PFIPC and any actions that may be required.
