Gbajabiamila not arrested, only questioned over PFIPC scandal — ICPC

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 in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) controversy.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commission’s spokesperson, Demola Bakare, clarified that Gbajabiamila voluntarily honoured an invitation from investigators and was allowed to leave after responding to questions.

According to the ICPC, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives arrived at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday afternoon, met with investigators as part of the ongoing inquiry and departed shortly afterwards.

“The Commission confirms that the Chief of Staff’s visit was at the invitation of its investigators and was consistent with its ongoing efforts to gather all relevant facts in the matter. He was not arrested; he willingly honoured the invitation,” the statement read.

The anti-corruption agency said investigations into the PFIPC matter are ongoing, adding that further updates will be provided as the inquiry progresses.

On Monday, Gbajabiamila’s lawyer, Jiti Ogunye, disclosed that the presidential aide 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 investigation into the controversy.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga had earlier announced that the President directed the Commission to conclude its investigation and submit a detailed report within 30 days.