Abuja: Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has demanded a transparent, independent, and comprehensive investigation into the alleged fake Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council scandal. The group made this known in a statement issued by its Convener, Yunusa Ya’u in Abuja on Wednesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the controversy revolves around allegations of a forged appointment of Adeniyi Adeyemi as Director-General of the purported federal agency. Ya’u highlighted concerns of influence peddling, corruption, budgetary allocations, and the operation of a non-existent government agency. He emphasized the need for competent authorities to establish the authenticity of these allegations through credible investigations rather than rely on speculations.
The convener recalled the presidency’s denial of any involvement by the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, and described the principal accuser as an impostor facing prosecution. However, Ya’u noted that the issue extends beyond individual culpability, raising broader concerns about transparency, accountability, and due diligence in public appointments.
Ya’u questioned reports that the 2026 budget allocated N1.3 billion to the agency despite claims of its non-existence. He also queried the reported deployment of staff to the phantom agency by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. According to him, the controversy has exposed weaknesses in Nigeria’s governance architecture and highlighted the need for a credible, independent, and transparent investigation.
He stated that conflicting accounts surrounding the agency, its recognition, and funding have weakened public confidence in government institutions. Despite official denials, Ya’u insisted that accountability requires independent scrutiny in a constitutional democracy. He called for the suspension of individuals linked to the alleged agency pending investigation and urged full cooperation by relevant officials and institutions.
Ya’u demanded the public release of investigation findings, prosecution of anyone found guilty of forgery or fraud, and an audit of appointment and verification processes. Furthermore, he urged the government to establish a public digital register of recognized federal institutions to enhance verification of agencies and appointments. While cautioning against premature judgments, Ya’u emphasized the need for due process and called for reforms to strengthen transparency, integrity, and public trust in governance.