The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed reports 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.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the commission’s spokesperson, Demola Bakare, clarified that Gbajabiamila honoured an invitation from investigators and left after responding to questions.
According to the ICPC, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives arrived at its Abuja headquarters on Tuesday afternoon, met with investigators for questioning and departed shortly afterwards.
“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 said.
The anti-corruption agency added that investigations into the PFIPC controversy are ongoing and that updates would be provided as necessary.
On Monday, Gbajabiamila’s lawyer, Jiti Ogunye, confirmed that the presidential aide appeared before the ICPC to answer questions relating to the alleged scandal.
The investigation followed President Bola Tinubu’s directive on July 2, instructing the ICPC to carry out a comprehensive probe into the matter.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga had earlier said the President directed the commission to conclude its investigation and submit a detailed report within 30 days.