From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has issued a clarification on its investigation into the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) student loan scheme, admitting an error in a prior press release that misled the public.
In a statement on Thursday, May 1, 2025, ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare revealed that the word “NOT” was omitted in the original release, falsely suggesting established discrepancies in the scheme’s administration.
Bakare stated, “The missing word created an erroneous impression that the alleged discrepancies or diversion has been established.” The corrected paragraph reads: “The ICPC confirmed that a clear case of discrepancies has NOT been established in the administration of the student loan scheme and announced that its investigation will now extend to beneficiary institutions and individual student recipients.”
The ICPC emphasised that it has only verified NELFUND’s funds received and disbursed, and any claims of diversion are premature. The Commission reiterated, “ICPC does not engage in media trials nor does it usurp the powers of the judiciary to indict persons or organisations.”
It urged patience, encouraging information submissions via its website (www.icpc.gov.ng) and noting the error’s correction online. The ICPC expressed regret for the oversight and confirmed the investigation continues without indictments.