The controversy surrounding the alleged Presidential Fiscal and Infrastructure Projects Council (PFIPC) took a new turn on Monday following reports that police operatives arrested the father of Prince Adeyemi Adeniyi, the central figure in the ongoing forgery investigation linked to the purported council.

The operation reportedly took place at the family’s residence in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, where a family friend who was visiting at the time was also said to have been arrested.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) confirmed the development in a telephone conversation, questioning the legality of the alleged arrest.

According to Falana, Adeniyi had already indicated his willingness to appear before the court, making the arrest of his father unjustifiable.

Residents of the neighbourhood also claimed that police officers arrived at the residence in four vehicles before taking the elderly man away.

One resident, who spoke anonymously, alleged that officers prevented neighbours from intervening during the operation and left behind an officer stationed in the area after the arrest.

Another eyewitness also claimed that Adeniyi’s father and a visitor were taken away, while the suspect’s elderly mother, who was reportedly left in shock, was later moved by neighbours.

As of the time of filing this report, the claims had not been independently verified, and the Nigeria Police Force had not issued an official statement on the reported operation.

The incident comes amid ongoing investigations into the alleged PFIPC, which has attracted public attention following claims that the council was never legally established despite assertions that it operated under the Presidency.

The controversy has led to criminal charges against Adeniyi over allegations of forgery, impersonation and related offences, with the matter already before the court while police investigations continue.

Falana has maintained that the allegations should be resolved through the judicial process, arguing that only the courts have the constitutional authority to determine criminal liability.

He has also cautioned against actions that could create the impression of intimidation or interference while the case remains before the court.

(Photo Credit: Leadership Newspaper)