Atiku Demands Independent Probe into PFIPC Scandal, Rejects ICPC Investigation Over N1.3 Billion Budget Controversy

Atiku Demands Independent Probe into PFIPC Scandal, Rejects ICPC Investigation Over N1.3 Billion Budget Controversy

Description: Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has rejected the ICPC probe into the PFIPC controversy, demanding an independent commission to investigate the alleged N1.3 billion budget allocation.

ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called for the immediate establishment of an independent commission of inquiry to investigate the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), insisting that only a transparent and impartial panel can uncover the truth behind the alleged N1.3 billion budget allocation.

The former presidential candidate argued that the Federal Government's decision to hand the investigation to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) falls short of Nigerians' demand for an independent and credible probe.

How the PFIPC Controversy Began

The PFIPC controversy erupted after the council reportedly received N1.3 billion in the 2026 federal budget, triggering widespread public concern and raising questions about the legitimacy of the agency.

On June 11, President Bola Tinubu's Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, publicly denied the existence of the council and disowned the reported appointment of Adeniyi Adeyemi as its head.

Gbajabiamila maintained that no such office exists under the Tinubu administration and that no appointment had been approved.

However, Adeyemi rejected the claim, insisting that official government records support his appointment. The Presidency later accused him of forging official documents, including an appointment letter, to falsely present himself as the head of the alleged agency.

Tinubu Orders ICPC Investigation

In response to the growing controversy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the ICPC to carry out a thorough investigation into the PFIPC saga.

The Presidency said the investigation would determine the facts surrounding the agency, the disputed appointment, and the controversial budget allocation.

Atiku Questions Government's Position

Reacting through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku argued that President Tinubu's directive contradicts the Presidency's earlier claim that the Nigeria Police had already completed its investigation, arrested a suspect, and filed criminal charges.

According to Atiku, if the police investigation was truly comprehensive, there would be no justification for launching another investigation through a government agency.

He stressed that Nigerians have consistently demanded an independent inquiry rather than another internal government investigation.

Atiku Proposes Independent 10-Member Commission

To restore public confidence, Atiku proposed the immediate establishment of a 10-member independent commission of inquiry comprising eminent Nigerians nominated by:

- The Federal Government

- African Democratic Congress (ADC)

- Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)

- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

- Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)

- Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)

- Retired judicial officers

According to him, the commission should:

- Conduct a comprehensive investigation into every aspect of the PFIPC controversy.

- Review evidence gathered by the Nigeria Police and other security agencies.

- Summon serving and former public officials where necessary.

- Publish a white paper containing its findings and recommendations.

- Submit its final report within one month.

Why Atiku Wants an Independent Investigation

Atiku maintained that only a commission made up of representatives from the government, opposition parties, civil society, legal professionals, and retired judges would command public trust.

He argued that transparency, accountability, and due process are essential to protecting public resources and strengthening confidence in Nigeria's democratic institutions.

As the controversy continues to dominate national discourse, many Nigerians are closely watching the Federal Government's next move and awaiting the outcome of ongoing investigations.

What Do You Think?

Should the ICPC continue with its investigation, or should the Federal Government establish an independent commission of inquiry as proposed by Atiku Abubakar?

Share your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to follow for credible breaking news, political analysis, and the latest updates from Nigeria and around the world.