‘N-Power fraud’: ICPC releases D’banj after three days in detention

D’banj has been released from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

On Tuesday, the singer was detained by the ICPC, a few weeks after he was summoned by the commission.

The ICPC said the singer was under investigation for diverting funds meant for the government’s N-Power project. In 2016, FG initiated the N-Power project to address the country’s unemployment challenges.

ICPC had earlier alleged that the stipends meant for beneficiaries of the initiative were paid to accounts linked to D’banj.

But in a statement on Friday, Pelumi Olajengbesi, a legal representative to Dbanj, said the singer has regained freedom, adding that “he is innocent”.

The lawyer also said Bolaji Owasanoye, the ICPC chairman, must be “deeply embarrassed” that the commission was used for “such shameful publicity against an innocent man.”

“After 72 hours of unfair detention and false allegation against D’banj, the ICPC on Friday afternoon released the popular singer,” Olajengbesi said.

“Nigerians must be told the truth that D’banj is clean and have no criminal or fraud record.

“It, however, is an embarrassment to the entire country that such a huge allegation of N900m fraud against a public figure without any evidence.

“The ICPC Chairman, Bolaji Owasanoye (SAN), and the entire officers of the ICPC must be deeply sad and embarrassed also that their decent organization was used for such shameful publicity against an innocent man.

“Only a few organizations and persons stood and waited to verify the claims. This form of media trial is evil.”

Olajengbesi also said Sadiya Farouq, the humanitarian affairs minister, must explain how certain monies were traced to his account.

“We still demand that the minister provide the details of the government authority D’banj allegedly collaborated with and provide the account and N-power funds allegedly traced to Dbanj’s account,” the lawyer added.

“This is injustice and upon the instruction of our client, we may head to court to seek redress, a public apology, and compensation from the ICPC.

“The detention of D’banj is an injustice having that the ICPC found nothing incriminating traced to his innocent personality.”