The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed reports alleging that the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, was arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) scandal.
The anti-graft agency clarified that Gbajabiamila merely honoured an invitation extended to him by its investigators as part of efforts to gather relevant facts in the ongoing probe and was not taken into custody.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, ICPC spokesperson, Demola Bakare, said the former Speaker of the House of Representatives arrived at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday afternoon, met with investigators, responded to questions relating to the investigation and departed shortly afterwards.
“The Commission confirms that the Chief of Staff’s visit was on the invitation of its investigators and consistent with its ongoing efforts to gather all relevant facts in the matter. He was not arrested; he simply willingly honoured an invitation,” Bakare stated.
The Commission stressed that the investigation into the PFIPC controversy remains ongoing, assuring the public that further updates would be provided as developments unfold.
Gbajabiamila’s appearance before the Commission was first disclosed on Monday by his counsel, Jiti Ogunye, who confirmed that the presidential aide responded to questions from investigators over issues relating to the alleged PFIPC scandal.
The probe followed President Bola Tinubu’s directive on July 2 mandating the ICPC to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the controversy.
Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, had announced that the President instructed the anti-corruption agency to conclude its investigation and submit a comprehensive report within 30 days, underscoring the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public service.
