The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has uncovered another alleged fake federal agency operating in Nigeria.
The development emerged from an ongoing investigation into the activities surrounding the purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).
ICPC spokesperson John Odey disclosed the development in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
He said ICPC Chairman Musa Aliyu revealed the latest findings while briefing journalists at the State House after meeting President Bola Tinubu.
ICPC identifies alleged fake agency
According to Aliyu, investigators discovered an organisation operating under the name “National Brands Development and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office.”
The ICPC chairman said the organisation was allegedly promoted by George Nwabueze, with suspected involvement of some senior officials within the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
Aliyu said investigations had also established that Nwabueze allegedly operated using several variations of his name.
The names listed by the commission are Prince George Buch Nwabueze, George Nathan Nwabueze, Hon. George Buchi Nwabueze and George Nwabueze.
Tinubu orders arrest, suspends officials
Aliyu said he briefed President Tinubu on the commission’s findings concerning the alleged fake agency.
According to the ICPC chairman, the president subsequently ordered the arrest of George Buchi Nwabueze.
Tinubu also directed the immediate suspension of three permanent secretaries in the OSGF, according to the ICPC.
The suspended officials were identified as MS Danjuma, Nandungu Gagare and Richard Pheelangwa.
The commission said the latest discovery was connected to its broader investigation into the alleged fake PFIPC promoted by Adeniyi Matthew.
ICPC reaffirms commitment to due process
The ICPC said investigations into the matter would continue in accordance with the law.
Aliyu reiterated the commission’s commitment to fighting corruption while ensuring that investigations and enforcement actions are conducted within the framework of due process and the rule of law.
