By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA — The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has described the controversy surrounding the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) as a significant governance issue, calling for an independent investigation into allegations linked to the body.
In a statement issued on Sunday, CHRICED Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, said the allegations surrounding the PFIPC have raised concerns about transparency, accountability and public trust in governance.
The organisation called for the suspension of the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, pending the outcome of an independent investigation into the allegations.
CHRICED said the controversy has become a test of public accountability at a time when many Nigerians are facing economic and security challenges.
Zikirullahi said the allegations require careful scrutiny because of their potential implications for governance and public confidence.
The group referenced allegations made by Adeniyi Adeyemi, identified as the disowned Director-General of the PFIPC, concerning Gbajabiamila. It noted, however, that the allegations remain unproven but argued that they warrant an impartial and transparent investigation.
Among its recommendations, CHRICED called for the establishment of an independent investigative panel comprising civil society representatives, anti-corruption experts and jurists to examine the PFIPC controversy and related issues.
The organisation also urged the Federal Government to publish details of government-linked councils, committees and intervention bodies, including their legal mandates, funding sources and operational frameworks.
In addition, it called on the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Budget Office to clarify issues raised in the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Article IV Consultation regarding unrecorded government spending.
CHRICED said the controversy underscores the need to strengthen transparency and accountability in public financial management.
The group also urged civil society organisations, the media, professional bodies and other stakeholders to continue advocating for transparency and accountability in public affairs.
