Idara Jerome, Uyo
The demand for an independent judicial inquiry into allegations involving the Director-General of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council, Mr. Adeniyi Adeyemi, took centre stage on Monday as a civil society organisation, Vital Partners for Development (VipaD), warned that public confidence in the anti-corruption fight could be eroded if investigations are perceived as selective.
The Uyo-based advocacy group said only a transparent and comprehensive judicial probe, backed by due process, would reassure Nigerians that justice is being pursued without political interference or preferential treatment.
Addressing journalists in Uyo, the Executive Director of VipaD, Dr. Victor David, insisted that every individual linked to the allegations, including Adeyemi, should be subjected to the same investigative standards, stressing that the credibility of the process depends on openness and fairness.
The organisation also urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to produce Adeyemi before the National Assembly investigative panel, saying the appearance of all relevant witnesses is critical to establishing the truth.
According to Dr. David, the Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to fair hearing, while the National Assembly possesses the constitutional powers to summon persons whose evidence is required in the course of investigations.
“No investigation can be regarded as complete, credible or impartial where a principal witness or key subject of inquiry is denied the opportunity to testify,” he said.
The group argued that excluding any material witness from the investigative process could cast doubt on the outcome and weaken public trust in institutions charged with promoting accountability.
“The Inspector-General of Police should produce Mr. Adeniyi Adeyemi before the National Assembly panel to give his testimony and respond to all issues raised during the investigation,” David stated.
VipaD maintained that the outcome of any inquiry should be evidence-driven, noting that those found culpable should face prosecution regardless of political office, official position or social status, while individuals who make false or malicious allegations should equally be sanctioned in accordance with the law.
“The fight against corruption cannot succeed where investigations are selective or perceived to shield certain individuals. Justice demands fairness to both the accuser and the accused,” the Executive Director declared.
The organisation further appealed to the Presidency, National Assembly, Nigeria Police Force, anti-corruption agencies, the judiciary and civil society groups to ensure that constitutional procedures are strictly followed throughout the investigation.
“Nigerians deserve the truth, and the truth can only emerge through an independent, transparent, comprehensive and constitutionally compliant investigation,” David added, urging all institutions involved to place justice above politics.