Fresh developments have emerged in the ongoing trial involving the alleged Director-General of the disowned Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), Mathew Adeniyi Adeyemi, with reports indicating that human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has withdrawn from the defence team.
Although Falana has not publicly confirmed the decision, sources familiar with the matter told The Guardian that the senior lawyer has stepped back from representing Adeyemi in the case.
Report cites documentation concerns
According to the report, Falana had initially indicated his willingness to represent Adeyemi. However, fresh developments reportedly altered that position.
Sources alleged that Adeyemi failed to provide several documents the legal team requested to prepare his defence. The report added that the missing documents affected efforts to build the case.
The sources also claimed the legal team encountered difficulties while assembling materials needed for court proceedings. However, Falana’s chambers have not issued any official statement confirming the reported withdrawal.
Defendant missed earlier court proceedings
The report also stated that efforts were previously made to secure Adeyemi’s appearance before the Federal High Court. However, he reportedly failed to appear for his scheduled arraignment.
On July 14, Justice Mohammed Umar subsequently issued a warrant for Adeyemi’s arrest after he did not attend court. The prosecution reportedly made an oral application for the warrant, while the defence was also absent from the proceedings.
Adeyemi was later arrested in Osun State after authorities alleged that he had evaded law enforcement officers. The court has adjourned the matter until September 30, 2026.
Case centres on alleged fake agency
The case stems from allegations surrounding the operations of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, an organisation the Presidency has previously disowned.
Authorities are investigating allegations linked to the council’s activities, including claims involving the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President. Adeyemi faces charges connected to the alleged operation of the organisation.
No official confirmation yet
As of the time of filing this report, neither Falana nor his legal chambers had publicly confirmed the reported withdrawal from Adeyemi’s defence.
Similarly, calls seeking clarification reportedly did not receive an immediate response. The PFIPC case continues to attract public attention as investigations and court proceedings progress.
Read also: PFIPC scandal deepens as ICPC questions Gbajabiamila, summons key agencies
