N-Power Fraud: ICPC Breaks Silence Over D’banj, To Extend Probe To Banks, Others
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that singer D’banj born Oladapo Oyebanjo is in its custody.
The anti-graft Commission in a statement by its Spokesperson, Mrs. Azuka Ogugua, said D’Banj is being investigated over his alleged involvement in a fraud case associated with the N-Power Programme.
Ogugua said its investigation will be extended to other collaborators of the fraud and the banks where the beneficiaries’ accounts are domiciled.
The N-Power is a scheme established by President Muhammadu Buhari on 8th June, 2016, to address the issues of youth unemployment and empowerment, and help increase social development.
But the ICPC said, “In line with its mandate, the Commission had received numerous petitions on the diversion of N-Power funds running into billions of naira following the approval and release of such funds to the beneficiaries by the Federal Government. Many N-Power beneficiaries had complained over the non-receipt of the monthly funds in spite of payment by the Government.
“About 10 persons have been invited by the ICPC over the last few months in connection with the N-Power fraud, and have been granted administrative bail after their detention.
“Several invitations to Mr. Oladipo Daniel Oyebanjo, to appear before a team of investigators were ignored and not honoured.
“Mr. Oyebanjo turned in himself and was taken into custody at the ICPC Headquarters on Tuesday, 6th December, 2022, and is currently assisting the investigators to unravel the circumstances of the fraud allegations by the petitioners.
“The investigation will be all-encompassing and also be extended to other collaborators of the fraud and the banks where the beneficiaries’ accounts are domiciled.
“The press release becomes necessary to set the record straight in view of the reports awash in the media. The investigation is ongoing and the Commission prefers not to preempt its outcome and also avoid the frenzy of a media trial.”
-diplomatic diary
