Atiku Demands Probe Into Gbajabiamila Over ₦400m Bribery Allegation

Former Vice President and ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has urged President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate exemplary leadership by holding his appointees accountable. Specifically, Atiku called on the President to permit a thorough investigation into his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, regarding a ₦400 million bribery allegation. The allegation was brought forward by Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, the Director General of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIP).

In a statement responding to the scandal, Atiku argued that Gbajabiamila’s defense—claiming the PFIP does not exist—has backfired. According to the former Vice President, this denial has only worsened the situation, creating deeper credibility gaps for the Chief of Staff. Atiku emphasized that true accountability within the presidency is essential to resolving the public trust issues raised by the controversy.

According to Atiku, “How can you allocate N27.4 billion in the budget to a government agency that doesn’t exist without leaving more questions than answers.”

The ADC presidential candi­date explained that the Chief of Staff’s claim only created more problems for the government.

According to him, allocating N27.4 billion to an agency that doesn’t exist puts questions marks on credibility of the entire 2026 national budget.

The Waziri Adamawa said this alleged colossal budgetary fraud cannot be swept under the carpet by weak and unconvinc­ing explanations by the Chief of Staff.

The former Vice President recommended the immediate suspension of the Chief of Staff to allow for an independent investigation into the escalating national scandal. He emphasized that a transparent inquiry is the only way to uncover the complete truth behind the allegations. By stepping aside, the official would ensure the integrity of the process and prevent any perceived interference.

Stressing that good governance relies on transparency, Atiku warned that protecting friends and family undermines accountability. He urged President Tinubu to uphold the rule of law and subject his Chief of Staff to the same standards as any other public official, noting that sums as large as ₦27 billion demand serious scrutiny. Ultimately, he challenged the President to prove his administration’s sincere commitment to anti-corruption by letting justice take its course.