ICPC Refutes Claims Of Hostage Situation At Amnesty International Office

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has dismissed reports alleging that its operatives attacked or invaded the Abuja office of Amnesty International or held any of the organisation’s staff hostage.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Commission described the report as false, misleading, and capable of inciting unnecessary tension. It clarified that its operatives were never at the Amnesty International office at any time.

According to the Commission, its officers were on official assignment at the IHS Regional Office on Dar es Salaam Street, Wuse II, Abuja — the location where the alleged confrontation was said to have occurred. ICPC noted that earlier attempts to deliver an official correspondence at the facility were obstructed by the Chief Security Officer and other security personnel of IHS, who forcefully escorted the operatives out of the building.

The Commission said this obstruction led it to obtain a search warrant to carry out its lawful duties, insisting that all its actions were in line with the law. It emphasised that it is a responsible, law-abiding institution that expects full cooperation from individuals and organisations during its operations, warning that it would not tolerate any obstruction of its officers.

ICPC also disclosed that the Director of Regulatory Affairs at IHS, Saidu Abdullahi, had tendered a written apology on behalf of the company, describing the incident as unfortunate and regrettable and assuring that the lapses on the part of the security personnel would be addressed.

While urging the public to disregard the misleading publication, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, integrity and respect for the rule of law in the execution of its mandate.