BY TAIBAT UMMI YAKUBU

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned Adeniyi Adeyemi before an Abuja High Court over allegations of forging a presidential appointment letter and impersonation in connection with a purported government agency.

Adeyemi, who allegedly presented himself as the Director-General of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC), is facing 22 counts relating to forgery and impersonation.

The commission alleged that Adeyemi forged a letter dated around March 8, 2024, bearing reference number SH/COS/209/A/3456 and purportedly signed or issued by Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.

According to the prosecution, the document allegedly appointed Adeyemi as the Director-General of the PFIPC. The ICPC accused him of presenting the letter to secure government recognition and legitimacy for activities it described as fraudulent.

The commission said the alleged offence is punishable under Section 364 of the Penal Code, Cap. 532, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990.

Following the arraignment, prosecution counsel Bardi urged the court to fix a date for the commencement of the trial.

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However, Adeyemi’s lawyer, Ibrahim Angulu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), made an oral application seeking bail for his client. Justice Halilu Yusuf directed him to file a formal written application before the request could be considered.

Angulu agreed to the court’s directive but raised concerns over his client’s prolonged detention, telling the court that Adeyemi had spent 155 days in custody and was experiencing health challenges.

The defence counsel also informed the court that he had a medical report from the police clinic where his client had reportedly been receiving treatment.

Justice Yusuf subsequently adjourned the case until November 9 for trial and possible consideration of Adeyemi’s bail application.

The allegations against Adeyemi have yet to be determined by the court.