The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has uncovered another alleged fake federal agency operating in Nigeria, prompting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, to order the arrest of its suspected promoter and the immediate suspension of three Permanent Secretaries.
The alleged fake agency, identified as the “National Brands Development and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office,” is reportedly being promoted by one George Buchi Nwabueze, with the ICPC alleging suspected collaboration by senior public servants in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
The ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, disclosed the development on Friday at the State House, Aso Villa, Abuja, after briefing President Tinubu on the Commission’s latest findings.
According to an official statement signed by J. Okor Odey, Head, Media and Public Communications, ICPC, the discovery was made during further investigations into the alleged fake Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), reportedly promoted by Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew.
The Commission said the findings prompted Aliyu to brief the President on the activities surrounding the newly uncovered alleged fake agency and the suspected involvement of public officials.
Following the briefing, President Tinubu directed the immediate arrest of Nwabueze and ordered the suspension of three Permanent Secretaries in the OSGF.
The affected officials were identified by the ICPC as Ms Danjuma, Engr. Nandungu Gagare and Richard Pheelangwa.
The Commission said its investigation had also established that the suspected promoter operated under several variants of his name, including Prince George Buchi Nwabueze, George Nathan, George Nathan Nwabueze, Hon. George Buchi Nwabueze and George Nwabueze.
The development represents another major action arising from the ICPC’s ongoing efforts to uncover alleged fraudulent entities and activities linked to the misuse of government structures and public offices.
The Commission maintained that its investigation would continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged operation of the agency and determine the extent of involvement of any public officials.
The ICPC also reaffirmed its commitment to fighting corruption while ensuring that investigations and enforcement actions are conducted in accordance with the rule of law and due process.
