The controversy surrounding the alleged fake Presidency agency has taken another dramatic turn after Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, the man at the centre of the investigation, publicly declared that he is innocent and ready to defend himself in court.
Adeyemi broke his silence days after the Presidency distanced itself from the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), an organisation he allegedly headed. However, despite the allegations against him, he insisted that only a court of competent jurisdiction can determine his guilt or innocence.
The latest development has added a new dimension to the case, which has attracted widespread public attention following the Presidency’s announcement that security agencies are investigating Adeyemi over claims that he operated a non-existent government agency.
Speaking during an interview with Channels Television, Adeyemi maintained that he was lawfully appointed and expressed confidence that the legal process would eventually establish the truth.
When asked whether he was prepared to face prosecution, he responded without hesitation.
“Definitely, sir. If I’m wrong, let the court of law do that, and if I’m right, let the court of law do that; do the right thing.”
Furthermore, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga disclosed that Adeyemi is currently being investigated by security agencies and is expected to be arraigned before a court on July 27.
According to the Presidency, Adeyemi had claimed that he received an appointment letter from the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
However, the Presidency said the claim had been rejected by the Chief of Staff, who denied issuing such an appointment.
Meanwhile, Adeyemi dismissed suggestions that he operated as a fraudster or impersonated government officials.
Instead, he insisted that the court would determine the facts surrounding the allegations against him.
“Since the matter is in the court, let the court of competent jurisdiction vindicate me because I’m ready to clear my name. Let the court take its course. Since my lawyers are involved, everybody will follow us. They will monitor the whole thing. Then let the court of competent jurisdiction do what they need to.”
Moreover, the television interview also focused on questions surrounding the funding of the council and the payment of staff salaries.
When asked to explain where the money came from, Adeyemi declined to provide details, citing the ongoing legal proceedings.
He maintained that it would be inappropriate to discuss issues already before the court.
“The truth will be unraveled at the court of law.”
He further stated:
“Mr Seun, I don’t want to talk much about it since the matter is in court. In fact, I’m restricted from talking since the matter is in the courts. So let’s just get to the courts, Ok?”
Furthermore, the outcome of the trial could determine whether Adeyemi’s claims of a lawful appointment can be substantiated or whether the allegations brought against him will be upheld.
The fake Presidency agency case also highlights the importance of verifying official government appointments and institutions before engaging with them.
