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The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed reports alleging that the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, was arrested over the ongoing investigation into the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) scandal.
The anti-graft agency clarified on Tuesday that Gbajabiamila only honoured an invitation by investigators and was not detained at any stage of the process.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Demola Bakare, the commission said the presidential aide voluntarily appeared at its headquarters in Abuja, responded to investigators’ questions and departed after the session.
“The Commission confirms that the Chief of Staff’s visit was on the invitation of its investigators and consistent with its ongoing efforts to gather all relevant facts in the matter.
“He was not arrested; he simply willingly honoured an invitation,” the statement read.
The ICPC stressed that questioning individuals connected to an investigation formed part of its statutory responsibility and should not be interpreted as evidence of wrongdoing or an arrest.
The commission added that its investigation into the PFIPC controversy was still underway and assured the public that further updates would be provided when necessary.
On Monday, Gbajabiamila’s lawyer, Jiti Ogunye, disclosed that his client had appeared before the ICPC to respond to questions relating to the alleged PFIPC scandal.
The investigation followed President Bola Tinubu’s directive on July 2, instructing the ICPC to carry out a comprehensive probe into the controversy.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga had announced that the President directed the commission to conclude its investigation and submit a detailed report within 30 days.
