Police Decline to Release Prince Adeyemi to House Committee Without Court Order

The Nigeria Police Force has declined to release Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, the purported Director-General of the controversial Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC), to a House of Representatives ad hoc committee without a court order authorising his release.

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu made the position known on Wednesday during a resumed hearing by the House panel investigating the unestablished agency.

Represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police Olufemi Akinola, the IGP stated that Prince Adeyemi is currently being detained pursuant to a court order and can only be released following a formal directive from a court of competent jurisdiction.

He reiterated the force’s commitment to cooperating with the legislature, stressing that the police will continue to accord the National Assembly the highest respect as a constitutional institution.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the ad hoc committee, Yusuf Gagdi, disclosed during the session that the panel has traced documents showing the origin of budgetary allocations purportedly made to the PFIPC and how the funds were introduced.

Mr. Gagdi further alleged that the committee’s investigation has uncovered evidence suggesting that Adeyemi created fictitious offices and names within the Presidency to facilitate fraudulent activities.

According to the chairman, the committee has gathered substantial documentary evidence and will release its preliminary findings next week before presenting its comprehensive report to the House of Representatives upon resumption from recess.

The panel also commended government agencies and other stakeholders that have cooperated with the investigation, noting that their support has helped advance the probe.