Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to investigate a fake federal entity that received 1.3 billion naira in the 2026 national budget.
The fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council was also allocated office space in Abuja, according to The Guardian.
>>> Canada Confirms Michigan Parasite Outbreak Has Not Spread Across Border
Forgery and Impersonation Allegations
The issue emerged in October when Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila reported that Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew forged his signature and official seals to create the council.
Adeyemi and two others face an eight-count charge, including criminal forgery and impersonation. A court hearing is scheduled in Abuja on July 27.
The presidency stated on July 1 that Adeyemi bypassed the foreign affairs ministry to meet ambassadors and misled officials into opening bank accounts.
Officials strongly defended Gbajabiamila against claims that he issued the appointment letter, urging politicians not to weaponise the suspect's narrative.
Political opponents have criticised the administration, citing past legal and financial controversies involving Gbajabiamila and Budget Minister Abubakar Atiku Bagudu.
>>> San Antonio Spurs Fire Play-by-Play Announcer Jacob Tobey After Social Media Scandal
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has demanded an independent commission of inquiry to determine if the suspect acted alone.
The House of Representatives has formed a committee to question the budget minister about how the fake agency entered the federal budget framework.
"Nigerians deserve the whole truth, not carefully scripted press statements," said Phrank Shuaibu, spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar. "We demand a truly independent investigation.
No sacred cows. No political protection.
>>> Starbucks Launches Pink Bearista Cold Cup and Pink Drink Merch Line Globally
No selective justice."
