Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has defended President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, against allegations linking him to the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), describing the claims as baseless and politically driven.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Thursday, July 9, 2026, Wike said Gbajabiamila could not be connected to the activities of the purported council, which the Presidency has declared non-existent.
The controversy followed claims by Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew, who identified himself as Director-General of the PFIPC and alleged that Gbajabiamila facilitated his appointment.
In response, President Tinubu directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) to investigate the matter and submit its report within 30 days.
Wike also rejected former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s call for opposition parties to participate in the probe, insisting that the investigation should be left to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.
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He said senior government officials are often targeted by individuals seeking to discredit the administration and questioned why the accuser had not presented evidence to investigators if the allegations were genuine.
The minister maintained that anyone making serious allegations must be prepared to substantiate them before security agencies, arguing that avoiding investigation undermines the credibility of such claims.
Recalling his own experience with alleged blackmail, Wike said he once allowed security agencies to investigate claims involving his son rather than seek a private settlement, adding that public office holders frequently face attempts to damage their reputations.
He further dismissed suggestions that the Office of the Chief of Staff could create or fund a government agency, noting that the office has no constitutional role in preparing the federal budget.
Wike said his defense of Gbajabiamila was based on his knowledge of the office and the official’s conduct, adding that the ICPC should be allowed to conclude its investigation without political interference.