A whistle-blower has petitioned the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over alleged abuse of office, financial misconduct, and intimidation involving an official of the State House Archives in Abuja.
According to the petition, addressed to the ICPC chairman, Akin Oyegoke, the petitioner identified a civil servant seconded from the National Archives of Nigeria to the State House Archives as the key actor in the alleged misconduct.
The petition raises concerns about her conduct, which is also the subject of an ongoing criminal case before a magistrate’s court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Documents obtained reveal that the police have filed charges against the official for an alleged fraudulent vehicle transaction.
Allegations of Fraud and Intimidation
The complainant alleged that the civil servant collected N2 million under the pretext of using her official connections to secure a sports utility vehicle (SUV) from the Nigeria Customs Service (NSC). The vehicle was reportedly never delivered, and the money was not refunded.
The matter has since escalated, with the complainant accusing the official of threats, intimidation, and attempts to discredit him.
He alleged that after demanding a refund, “The official contacted members of his family and circulated claims that the dispute stemmed from a failed romantic relationship.”
The petitioner denied this, describing it as a calculated attempt to derail the case.
Concerns Over National Heritage Assets
In a separate development, the ICPC petition also accused the official of attempting to sell historical medals privately. These reportedly include a British colonial-era Africa General Service Medal dating back to the early 20th century.
The whistle-blower alleged that the items were presented to a private individual for valuation and possible sale. If confirmed, this raises serious concerns over the unauthorised handling of national heritage assets and possible abuse of office within the Presidency.
The petition further claimed that the matter was reported to the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Initial steps were taken, including inviting the parties for questioning. According to the petitioner:
“The civil servant was directed to return the medals to the appropriate authorities.”
However, the process was allegedly halted without explanation, raising concerns about possible interference and a lack of institutional independence.
Accountability in the State House
The petition also questioned the official’s continued stay at the State House. It noted she has reportedly been on secondment from the National Archives of Nigeria for over a decade. The petitioner argued that this may contravene public service rules and weaken oversight mechanisms.
The whistle-blower has called on the ICPC to investigate the matter, including reviewing financial records and probing the handling of public assets. The petition described the case as extending beyond a personal dispute, citing the ongoing criminal prosecution and concerns over administrative processes within the Presidency.
It added that the case presents a test of accountability within sensitive government institutions. With the court case ongoing, attention is now on whether the ICPC will take urgent action to uphold transparency and the rule of law.
