ICPC Denies Holding Amnesty International Workers Hostage

ICPC Denies Holding Amnesty International Workers Hostage

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed as false and misleading media reports alleging that its operatives invaded the Abuja office of Amnesty International and held members of staff hostage.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Okor Odey, the anti-graft agency described the report as malicious and capable of causing unnecessary tension and mischief.

The ICPC clarified that at no time did its officers enter the premises of Amnesty International or detain any of its personnel. According to the Commission, its operatives were instead at the IHS Regional Office located at No. 6, Dar es Salaam Street, Wuse II, Abuja, on an official and lawful assignment where the reported incident allegedly occurred.

The statement explained that ICPC officers had earlier visited the IHS facility to deliver an official correspondence but were obstructed by the company’s Chief Security Officer and other security personnel, who prevented them from carrying out their lawful duties.

“The ICPC officers were forcefully escorted out of the building. This hostile action necessitated securing a search warrant in accordance with the law, which the ICPC did in the most lawful manner,” the Commission stated.

Reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, the ICPC said it is a responsible and law-abiding agency that expects full cooperation from individuals and corporate organisations in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities. It warned that it would not tolerate any obstruction of its officers while carrying out lawful duties.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission disclosed that the Director of Regulatory Affairs at IHS Regional Office, Mr. Saidu Abdullahi, has tendered a written apology to the ICPC on behalf of IHS Towers and its management.

In the apology, the incident was described as unfortunate and regrettable, with assurances that the lapses by the Chief Security Officer and personnel on duty would be addressed to prevent a recurrence.

The ICPC urged the public to disregard the misleading publication in its entirety, stressing that it does not reflect the true facts of the incident.

The Commission reiterated its resolve to continue carrying out its mandate with professionalism, integrity and respect for the rule of law.