The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed reports claiming its operatives held staff of Amnesty International hostage in Abuja.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s spokesperson, Okor Odey, the anti-graft agency described the reports as false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary tension.
The reports, which circulated on Thursday, alleged that ICPC officers stormed and attacked the Abuja office of Amnesty International. However, the Commission clarified that its operatives never entered Amnesty International’s premises.
According to ICPC, its officers were instead at the IHS Regional Office on Dar es Salaam Street, Wuse II, Abuja, on a lawful assignment when the alleged confrontation occurred.
The statement explained that during an earlier visit to deliver an official letter, ICPC officers were obstructed and prevented from completing their duties by the Chief Security Officer and other security personnel of IHS. The officers were reportedly forced out of the building, prompting the commission to obtain a search warrant in line with legal procedures.
“The ICPC is a responsible, law-abiding agency and expects cooperation from individuals and corporate bodies while carrying out its statutory responsibilities,” the statement said.
The Commission added that it will not tolerate any attempt to obstruct its officers during official duties.
ICPC further revealed that the Director of Regulatory Affairs at the IHS Regional Office, Saidu Abdullahi, has submitted a written apology on behalf of the company, describing the incident as unfortunate and assuring that the lapses on the part of the security personnel would be addressed.
The Commission urged the public to disregard the misleading publication, stressing that it does not reflect the true events.
