PFIPC Scandal Atiku Demands Independent Probe, Accuses Tinubu Administration Of Cover-Up

PFIPC Scandal Atiku Demands Independent Probe, Accuses Tinubu Administration of Cover-Up ADC presidential candidate calls for transparent investigation into controversial council allegations

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress ADC candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has called for an independent investigation into the controversy surrounding the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council PFIPC, alleging that the Bola Tinubu administration is shielding officials and attempting to redirect attention toward opposition figures. Atiku, through a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, argued that the investigation into the controversy should not be handled solely by agencies under the control of the Federal Government. He called for a process that would be independent, credible and capable of uncovering the full facts behind the matter. The former vice president accused the administration of attempting to manage the fallout from the PFIPC controversy by focusing attention on individuals outside government rather than addressing questions about how the organisation allegedly operated within government structures.

He questioned how an organisation described by authorities as fictitious could allegedly secure government recognition, operate from official premises, engage diplomatic contacts and reportedly receive budgetary provisions without wider institutional awareness. The PFIPC controversy emerged after allegations that a purported government body had been operating using forged documents and presenting itself as an official entity. Reports said the organisation was linked to claims of budget allocation, office accommodation and interactions with government institutions. The controversy intensified after the arrest of Adeniyi Adeyemi, described as the self-styled Director-General of the PFIPC. Atiku alleged that the arrest appeared designed to obtain statements that could implicate opposition figures rather than fully investigate all those connected to the matter. Beyond Atiku’s demand, other voices have also called for broader scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the PFIPC saga, including questions about oversight, budget processes and institutional accountability. The National Assembly has also faced pressure to examine how funds reportedly linked to the council appeared in government budget documents. The Tinubu administration has maintained that the matter is being addressed through official channels. President Bola Tinubu reportedly directed an investigation into the controversy, with a report expected after the review process. However, Atiku insists that only an independent inquiry can restore public confidence and determine whether any officials failed in their responsibilities. The PFIPC controversy has added another layer to political tensions in Nigeria, with opposition parties demanding accountability while the government faces pressure to provide answers over the allegations. As investigations continue, attention remains focused on whether authorities will uncover the full details surrounding the council’s operations and whether any public officials will face further scrutiny.