PFIPC Controversy: Arewa Youth Backs Gbajabiamila

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has welcomed the State House clarification on the controversy surrounding the alleged fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), saying the statement has cleared the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, of any wrongdoing.

The group also commended Gbajabiamila for what it described as his proactive role in exposing the alleged scam, saying his actions demonstrated transparency and commitment to good governance.

In a statement signed by its national president, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu, AYCF described the clarification issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, as comprehensive and factual.

The forum said the State House statement detailed how Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew allegedly forged official documents, created a non-existent government agency, secured unauthorised office space at the Federal Secretariat and engaged in activities that undermined government institutions and diplomatic protocols.

According to the State House, Gbajabiamila reported the matter to the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force on October 17, 2025, following complaints from officials of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council (NIPC) about an entity allegedly operating in conflict with its mandate.

The Chief of Staff was said to have submitted evidence, including forged appointment letters bearing falsified signatures, seals and reference numbers.

“We commend the Chief of Staff for his vigilance and proactive steps right from October 2025 when he reported the matter to the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Police. This action demonstrates his unwavering commitment to transparency and good governance,” the statement said.

“His timely intervention prevented what could have been a major embarrassment to the government and the nation at large. Hon. Gbajabiamila has once again proven why he remains a trusted leader.

“By refusing to overlook suspicious activities and choosing instead to involve relevant security agencies immediately, he has set a shining example of accountability that all public office holders should emulate. This is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs at this critical time.”

AYCF further described Gbajabiamila as a long-standing advocate of accountability and anti-corruption, recalling his tenure as Minority Leader and later Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The group said his legislative career was marked by efforts to strengthen oversight, promote transparency and advance reforms aimed at improving governance.

“From his days in the National Assembly, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila has consistently demonstrated sincerity, integrity, and dedication to the progress of this nation. He fought against corruption, championed legislative reforms, and worked tirelessly for the betterment of Nigerians,” Aliyu said.

“It is therefore not surprising that he would be the first to blow the whistle on any suspicious activity that could tarnish the image of the Presidency. Leaders like him are rare, and we in the Arewa Youth will continue to stand by such individuals who place the interest of the country above all else.

“His track record speaks volumes and cannot be erased by the desperate claims of impostors.”

The forum also questioned the credibility of allegations made by Matthew, whom it described as an individual with a history of fraudulent activities.

AYCF recalled claims that Matthew had in 2016 presented himself as President-General of a purported World Youth Organisation allegedly linked to the United Nations, an organisation the group described as non-existent.

“It is really shocking that Adeyemi, whose track record for criminality has always been in the public domain — including his earlier false claims of being President-General of a non-existent World Youth Organisation — would accuse anyone in this country. Nigerians should think twice before believing such a character,” the statement added.

“His allegations are clearly an afterthought from a man already facing criminal charges in court. We urge the public to exercise caution and allow the judicial process to take its full course rather than jumping to conclusions based on the narrative of a serial impostor.

“Justice will eventually prevail, and the truth will come out during the trial scheduled for July 27.”

The group urged political actors and members of the public not to politicise the matter, noting that the case is already before the court.

It also reaffirmed its support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and called on Nigerian youths, particularly those in the North, to remain vigilant against fraudsters and impostors.

“We stand firmly with the Chief of Staff and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Any attempt to drag innocent leaders into the mud through the antics of con artists will be resisted,” Aliyu declared.

“The Arewa Youth will continue to monitor developments and support all efforts geared towards building a better Nigeria anchored on transparency, accountability, and selfless service.”