by George Ozalla
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has dismissed as false a media report alleging that its operatives attacked or invaded the Abuja office of Amnesty International or held any staff of the organisation hostage. This clarification came according to a press statement signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, J. Okor Odey, who described the publication as malicious and capable of causing unnecessary tension.
The Commission stated that at no time did its officers enter the Amnesty International office, noting that its operatives were at the IHS Regional Office on Dar es Salaam Street, Wuse II, Abuja, on an official assignment when the misunderstanding occurred. ICPC explained that its officials had earlier visited the facility to deliver an official correspondence but were obstructed and prevented by the Chief Security Officer and other security personnel from carrying out their lawful duties.
The statement noted that the officers were forcefully escorted out of the building, a development that compelled the Commission to obtain a search warrant in line with the law. ICPC emphasised that it remains a responsible and law-abiding agency and expects full cooperation from individuals and corporate bodies while carrying out its statutory functions, adding that it will not tolerate any act aimed at obstructing its officers in the discharge of their duties.
ICPC disclosed that the Director of Regulatory Affairs of the IHS Regional Office, Saidu Abdullahi, has tendered a written apology on behalf of IHS Towers and its management, describing the incident as unfortunate and regrettable. He also assured that lapses on the part of the security personnel involved would be addressed to prevent a repeat.
The Commission urged the public to disregard the misleading report, stressing that it does not reflect the facts of the incident. ICPC reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, integrity and respect for the rule of law in the execution of its mandate.
