Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff to President Bola Tinubu, addressed allegations of involvement with the disputed Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) during his 2026 mega empowerment programme in Lagos, asserting his loyalty to the president and denying any connection to the organization. Speaking at the National Stadium in Surulere on Saturday, Gbajabiamila acknowledged the
The controversy emerged after Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, who claimed to be the Director-General of the PFIPC, accused Gbajabiamila of demanding ₦400 million through a proxy and seeking an additional ₦200 million for his alleged appointment to the body. Gbajabiamila categorically denied the claims, stating he had no personal, official, or professional relationship with Adeyemi. The Presidency later disowned the PFIPC, labeling it unaffiliated with the federal government, while President Tinubu directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the allegations. The ICPC questioned Gbajabiamila voluntarily, confirming he was not arrested, and subsequent inquiries by the House of Representatives’ ad hoc committee found no evidence of his involvement in the PFIPC’s activities. The committee also declared the appointment letter presented by Adeyemi as fake.
Gbajabiamila emphasized his unwavering commitment to Tinubu’s administration, citing their long-standing political relationship and his adherence to the president’s leadership despite differing perspectives. He stated, “In politics, loyalty is the currency we spend the most. I have been with Mr. President for many years... I stayed loyal then and I remain loyal now.” The chief of staff also warned against misuse of his name, vowing legal action against those who “defraud people or misrepresent me.” His remarks followed a period of intense scrutiny, during which he credited supporters in Lagos and beyond for their public defense amid “strange accusations” and “lies” about his integrity.
The resolution of the PFIPC controversy underscores the importance of due process in political accountability, with multiple institutions—nigerian police, DSS, ICPC, and the House of Representatives—concluding that Gbajabiamila was not implicated in the alleged activities. The case highlights the challenges faced by public officials navigating unverified claims and the need for transparent investigations. As Gbajabiamila reaffirmed his dedication to Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope agenda,” the episode remains a focal point in discussions about political loyalty, institutional integrity, and the risks of unsubstantiated allegations in public life.