CHRICED calls for probe of PFIPC controversy, seeks accountability

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Femi Gbajabiamila

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By Luminous Jannamike

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ABUJA — The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has described the controversy surrounding the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) as a significant governance issue, calling for an independent investigation into allegations linked to the body.

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In a statement issued on Sunday, CHRICED Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, said the allegations surrounding the PFIPC have raised concerns about transparency, accountability and public trust in governance.

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The organisation called for the suspension of the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, pending the outcome of an independent investigation into the allegations.

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CHRICED said the controversy has become a test of public accountability at a time when many Nigerians are facing economic and security challenges.

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Zikirullahi said the allegations require careful scrutiny because of their potential implications for governance and public confidence.

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The group referenced allegations made by Adeniyi Adeyemi, identified as the disowned Director-General of the PFIPC, concerning Gbajabiamila. It noted, however, that the allegations remain unproven but argued that they warrant an impartial and transparent investigation.

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Among its recommendations, CHRICED called for the establishment of an independent investigative panel comprising civil society representatives, anti-corruption experts and jurists to examine the PFIPC controversy and related issues.

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The organisation also urged the Federal Government to publish details of government-linked councils, committees and intervention bodies, including their legal mandates, funding sources and operational frameworks.

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In addition, it called on the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Budget Office to clarify issues raised in the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Article IV Consultation regarding unrecorded government spending.

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CHRICED said the controversy underscores the need to strengthen transparency and accountability in public financial management.

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The group also urged civil society organisations, the media, professional bodies and other stakeholders to continue advocating for transparency and accountability in public affairs.

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