Amanze Chinonye
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, over the controversy surrounding the purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), insisting that calls for his removal are misplaced, Prime Business Africa reports.
Speaking during his monthly media parley, Wike said he knew Gbajabiamila “very, very well” and was certain that the former Speaker of the House of Representatives was not involved in the activities of the alleged council.
“I know the Chief of Staff very, very well. He did not,” Wike said in response to allegations linking Gbajabiamila to the controversy.
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The minister also questioned calls by opposition figures and critics demanding Gbajabiamila’s removal, arguing that such decisions are the prerogative of the elected government.
“People are saying the Chief of Staff must be sacked. By whom? The opposition? Why not form a government, and then you can sack whoever you want to sack?” he asked.
The controversy followed the emergence of the purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, an organisation that presented itself as a government-backed body involved in promoting foreign partnerships and investment initiatives.
The Presidency later disowned the organisation, stating that it was not established by the Tinubu administration and that no appointment linked to the council was authorised by the Office of the Chief of Staff.
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The Office of the Chief of Staff subsequently issued a disclaimer, warning members of the public, government institutions, diplomatic missions and other stakeholders against recognising claims made by individuals presenting themselves as officials or representatives of the purported council.
The development sparked public debate, with some critics calling for accountability over how the organisation gained prominence, while government supporters maintained that the matter should be addressed through investigation rather than political demands.
Wike’s comments come amid ongoing scrutiny over government appointments and administrative processes, as the controversy surrounding the alleged council continues to generate public attention.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
