Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has acknowledged meeting alleged fraudster Adeniyi Adeyemi Mathew, saying he was among those deceived by the suspect who allegedly posed as the head of the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).

Speaking during plenary on Tuesday, Kalu told lawmakers that his interaction with Mathew was based on the belief that he represented a legitimate government agency.

Kalu: I Was Also a Victim

Addressing the chamber, the Deputy Speaker explained that several public officials, including himself, had unknowingly engaged with Mathew because he presented himself as a genuine government appointee.

Kalu maintained that he was a victim of the alleged deception and had no knowledge that the organisation Mathew claimed to represent was not recognised by the Federal Government.

His remarks come after photographs and reports showing Mathew meeting with the Deputy Speaker in 2025 resurfaced following the scandal.

PFIPC Under Investigation

Mathew is accused of operating the fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) and allegedly using forged appointment letters and official documents to present himself as a presidential appointee.

Authorities allege he falsely claimed to be the Director-General of the council, secured meetings with senior government officials and attempted to obtain official recognition through forged documents.

The Presidency has repeatedly denied establishing the PFIPC, insisting the organisation has no legal backing or presidential approval.

President Bola Tinubu has since directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the activities of the alleged council and everyone connected to it.

Court Case Continues

The Nigeria Police Force has filed charges against Mathew over allegations including forgery, conspiracy and impersonation.

The case is expected to proceed in court later this month as investigations continue.

Kalu’s statement adds to growing concerns over how the suspect allegedly gained access to senior government officials before the alleged fraud was uncovered.

"I was a victim of Adeniyi Mathew…."

Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker House of Representatives pic.twitter.com/w11X5JEGCS

— Ayekooto (@DeeOneAyekooto) July 8, 2026