Another Fake Federal Agency Uncovers in SGF Office
By Pan Afric Reporters
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 to order the arrest of its suspected promoter and the immediate suspension of three Federal Permanent Secretaries.
The development was contained in a statement issued by J. Okor Odey, Head, Media and Public Communications, ICPC, following a briefing by the Commission’s Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, at the State House, Abuja, on Friday.
According to ICPC, the purported agency, known as the “National Brands Development and Made in Nigeria Special Project Office,” was allegedly being promoted by Mr George Buchi Nwabueze, with suspected collaboration from some senior public servants in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
The Commission said President Tinubu, after receiving a briefing from the ICPC chairman, directed the immediate arrest of Nwabueze and the suspension of three permanent secretaries in the OSGF identified as Ms Danjuma, Engr. Nandungu Gagare and Richard Pheelangwa.
Speaking to journalists after briefing the President, Aliyu said the discovery was linked to fresh findings arising from the Commission’s ongoing investigation into another alleged fake government body, the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), reportedly promoted by Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew.
ICPC further alleged that the suspected promoter of the newly uncovered agency operates under several variants of his name, including Prince George Buchi Nwabueze, George Nathan, George Nathan Nwabueze, Hon. George Buchi Nwabueze and George Nwabueze.
The Commission said the latest revelation warranted further briefing of the President, resulting in the directives issued after the Friday meeting at the Presidential Villa.
The ICPC stressed that its investigation into the matter would be conducted in accordance with the rule of law and due process.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to exposing fraudulent structures and strengthening accountability within the public service, while pursuing the investigation into the alleged fake agency and the roles of persons suspected to be involved.
“The ICPC remains committed to the rule of law and due process in the fight against corruption,” the statement said.
