EFCC, ICPC Probe Contracts Awarded byNigerian Press Council

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have commenced investigation into contracts awarded from 2021 till date by the Nigerian Press Council (NPC).

This was revealed in separate letters the anti-graft agencies addressed to the Executive Secretary of NPC, Mr. Francis Nwosu.

The letters, obtained by THISDAY, were sequel to the petitions to the agencies against NPC’s executive secretary by some aggrieved staff.

In its letter with reference number: CR: 3000/EFCC/ ABJ/ZN/CTGI-PS2/TA/VOL.04/153, signed by Adebayo Adeniyi and dated June 22, EFCC, Abuja Zonal Command, said the commission “is investigating a case and the need to obtain certain clarification from your office has become imperative. 

“In view of the above, you are kindly requested to furnish the following information. 

 “List of awarded contracts for the year 2021 till date; the contract files of the companies that were awarded the contracts; any other information that may assist the commission with its investigation. 

“This request is made pursuant to Section 38 of the EFCC Establishment Act, 2004. Your cooperation in this regard is highly solicited please.”

In its letter dated June 20 with reference number: ICPC/OPS/CPTG/114/2023 signed by Justice HM Hassan, ICPC said the commission “is investigating allegations concerning the violation of the provisions of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

“And it has become imperative to obtain information and records from your office. Pursuant to Section 28 of the above cited Act, you are hereby requested to direct and release a competent officer to appear before the undersigned at the Commission’s Headquarters, Central Business District, Abuja on July 3 at 10.00 hours for interview.

“The designated officer is to come along with documents stated below in respect of the constituency/capital projects hereto attached.

“Contract files for the projects; Evidence of payment for the projects; Evidence of financial releases from government for the projects; Bids documents in respect of the projects v. BOQ/BEME; Any other relevant document in respect of the above.

“Additionally, you are further requested to release and direct competent officers who can speak and guide the commission’s field officers in tracking the projects. 

“Your submission in this regard should contain the contact details of the nominated officers please. While the commission urges your prompt response, accept please, the assurances of the honourable chairman’s highest regards.”