Adeniyi Adeyemi, who claims to be the Director-General of the disputed Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), has alleged that his life is in danger ahead of his scheduled arraignment.
The embattled PFIPC claimant also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to establish an independent panel to investigate the controversy surrounding his appointment and the agency’s activities.
Adeyemi denies going into hiding
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, Adeyemi dismissed reports that he had gone into hiding to avoid prosecution.
Instead, he said he withdrew from public appearances because of security concerns.
“Definitely, I’m ready. I’m ready to show my face. I’m not hiding. I’m only fearing for my life because I have it on good authority that my life is in danger.”
He claimed unidentified persons had made several attempts on his life. However, he did not provide further details or identify those allegedly responsible.
Calls for independent investigation
Adeyemi also urged President Tinubu to establish an independent panel to investigate the alleged ₦1.3 billion budget insertion linked to the PFIPC.
He argued that government agencies alone should not handle the investigation because the allegations involve senior public officials.
According to him, an independent panel involving civil society organisations and other stakeholders would inspire greater public confidence.
He also questioned the effectiveness of the ongoing investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
“Government can’t probe government. Are you telling me that the ICPC would indict Chief Femi Gbajabiamila? It’s not possible.”
Claims he borrowed ₦400 million
Adeyemi further claimed he borrowed ₦400 million to facilitate what he believed was a genuine appointment.
According to him, he paid the money after receiving official communications he believed originated from government institutions.
“I borrowed the N400 million I used to get the appointment, and the creditors are after me now.”
He added that the creditors had reported the matter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), leaving him under financial pressure.
Adeyemi, however, did not identify the lenders or provide documentary evidence to support the claim.
Questions over PFIPC controversy
The PFIPC claimant insisted he established the agency to attract foreign investment to Nigeria rather than for personal benefit.
He also questioned how the council allegedly appeared in the national budget if government now maintains that it does not exist.
According to Adeyemi, he was in police detention when the budget was prepared and defended before the National Assembly.
He further denied falsely presenting himself as a United Nations appointee. Instead, he described the allegation as part of a campaign to discredit him.
Arraignment expected
Adeyemi is expected to appear before Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja over an eight-count charge filed by the Nigeria Police.
The charges include allegations of forgery and impersonation relating to the PFIPC.
Meanwhile, government officials have continued to distance themselves from the council, insisting it is not a recognised federal agency. Investigations by anti-corruption agencies and court proceedings remain ongoing.
