The African Democratic Congress, through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, on Sunday accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of failing to protect the image of the Presidency following allegations surrounding the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, PFIPC.
Speaking during an interview on Symfoni TV, Abdullahi said the controversy has damaged Nigeria’s reputation both at home and abroad and called for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Abdullahi said the allegations linked to the PFIPC and its purported Director General, Adeniyi Adeyemi, have raised fresh concerns about corruption within the Presidency. According to him, many Nigerians and members of the international community now view the administration with suspicion because of claims that public offices and government opportunities have been turned into channels for personal gain.
He said the controversy has revived long-standing claims that money is collected in exchange for government contracts, appointments and access to top government officials. He added that many people had previously dismissed such claims, but the latest allegations have made some Nigerians believe the practice may have been going on for a long time.
The ADC spokesman said the President has a responsibility to ensure that the matter is investigated openly and fairly. He stated that only a transparent probe would clear the Presidency of any suggestion that it was involved in or tolerated corruption.
Abdullahi also questioned the decision to publicly defend the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, before the completion of any investigation. He said such a move could create the impression that those close to the President were being protected instead of allowing the facts to determine responsibility.
He further urged Gbajabiamila to temporarily step aside to allow an independent investigation to take place without interference. According to him, taking leave while the investigation is ongoing would help protect the integrity of the process and give the public greater confidence in the outcome.
Abdullahi said anyone whose name is connected to allegations of this nature should be willing to cooperate fully with investigators in order to clear any doubts. He added that an independent panel should be allowed to examine all the claims and present its findings without influence.
The PFIPC controversy has continued to generate political reactions, with opposition parties calling for accountability while awaiting the outcome of any official investigation into the allegations.