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Tag: Benjamin Kalu

  • Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Admits Meeting Alleged PFIPC Fraudster, Says He Was Also Deceived

    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.

  • Birthday Twist as Kalu Signs Tinubu’s 2027 Nomination Form

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid, signing his nomination form for the 2027 general elections.

    The move coincided with Kalu’s 55th birthday, which he described as a symbolic moment to reaffirm his political stance.

    “A birthday gift” — Kalu explains move

    Kalu said endorsing the President’s form was a rare privilege and a meaningful way to mark his birthday.

    “This was indeed a beautiful birthday gift… reaffirming my support and commitment to the continuity of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

    Top figures join endorsement

    The signing took place on Tuesday alongside other key figures, including Ikeja lawmaker James Faleke and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    Kalu disclosed the development in a post shared on his X handle.

    Backing continuity beyond 2027

    According to the Deputy Speaker, the endorsement reflects a broader commitment among some political leaders to sustain the current administration’s reforms.

    He said efforts remain focused on advancing development and improving the welfare of Nigerians.

    “We remain resolute in our pledge to work with Mr. President in delivering transformative reforms,” he added.

    Early signals ahead of 2027

    The development adds to early political signals ahead of the 2027 elections, with alignments and endorsements gradually taking shape within the ruling camp.