Akande Faults Presidency Over Alleged Fake Agency, Rising Insecurity
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
Former presidential spokesman, Laolu Akande, has criticised the Presidency over what he described as its failure to provide satisfactory explanations regarding the alleged existence of a fake government agency, while also expressing concern over the country’s worsening security situation.
Speaking during the My Take segment of Inside Sources on Channels Television, Akande questioned how the alleged agency was able to appear in the Federal Government’s budget and reportedly operate from an office within the Federal Secretariat if it was not officially recognised.
He also wondered why no government official has been held accountable despite reports that the matter was brought to the attention of the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, as far back as October last year. According to him, the delay in taking action raises concerns about the government’s commitment to accountability.
Akande further advised Gbajabiamila to take the allegations seriously, noting that senior lawyer Femi Falana is reportedly pursuing legal action in connection with the case. He argued that the involvement of Falana suggests the matter deserves careful attention.
The former presidential spokesman also criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s choice of advisers, saying the administration’s handling of the controversy reflects weaknesses within the President’s team.
On the security situation, Akande said it is troubling that authorities appear to know the identities of many terrorist suspects, yet violent attacks and kidnappings continue across the country. He maintained that intelligence should translate into improved public safety through timely arrests and effective action.
However, he welcomed the reported arrest of suspected terrorists upon their return from pilgrimage in Mecca, describing it as evidence that Nigeria’s integrated identity management system is yielding positive results.
Akande’s comments come amid allegations by Adeniyi Adeyemi, who claims to head the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Council and has accused Gbajabiamila of corruption. The Presidency has dismissed claims surrounding the purported agency, insisting that it does not exist and that due process is being followed.
