PFIPC scandal: Turaki PDP faction demands independent probe

The Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to order an independent investigation into the controversy surrounding the PFIPC scandal, saying the matter has raised fresh concerns about transparency, accountability and governance within the Federal Government. The group made the demand in a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong.

According to the faction, the allegations and counterclaims involving senior officials in the Presidency should not be handled through internal reviews alone. It said a credible and independent investigation is necessary to establish the facts, identify anyone found responsible and restore public confidence in government institutions.

The group argued that the controversy has exposed what it described as weaknesses in the administration’s system of governance. It said Nigerians deserve a full explanation of how the events surrounding the scandal occurred and called for a forensic investigation by an internationally recognised firm.

The Turaki-led faction maintained that if the Presidency’s position that Prince Adeniyi Matthew was an impostor is correct, then it raises serious questions about how someone without official authority allegedly operated within government institutions, secured office space, had staff assigned to him, received budgetary provisions and interacted with major government agencies.

It also stated that if the allegations made against the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, prove to be true, the situation would point to another case of corruption within the current administration. According to the faction, either outcome would leave Nigerians as the biggest losers.

The group urged President Tinubu to suspend officials directly connected to the matter while investigations are ongoing. It also asked the government to reorganise the Presidency and issue a public apology if lapses are confirmed.

The faction further argued that the administration should focus more on governance than political activities, warning that failure to address the controversy openly could deepen public distrust in government.

The latest demand follows allegations by Prince Adeniyi Matthew, who claimed that Gbajabiamila received ₦400 million through an intermediary and later demanded an additional ₦200 million to facilitate his appointment.

The Presidency has rejected the allegations, insisting that the Chief of Staff has no constitutional authority to make appointments and dismissing the claims against him.