Lawyer Jiti Ogunye has defended Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, asserting that there is no valid reason for him to resign over the fake Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) controversy. During an appearance on TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout, Ogunye argued that because Gbajabiamila has not been charged or indicted, forcing him out would harm the justice process rather than help it.
Ogunye emphasized the constitutional right to be presumed innocent. He warned against the current trend of judging public figures in the court of public opinion before formal investigations conclude. According to the lawyer, resignation should only be debated if a clear conflict of interest exists or if the official is actively blocking an ongoing inquiry. Since no such evidence exists, he believes the Chief of Staff should remain in his role.
Regarding the allegations brought by Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew, Ogunye claimed that the accuser himself fabricated government documents to pose as the leader of a non-existent agency. He stated that the scheme was intended to defraud investors and institutions. Furthermore, Ogunye noted that Gbajabiamila has denied any association with the individual and pointed out that his office issued a formal disclaimer after the deception came to light. The attorney concluded that public officials should not be driven from office by unverified claims without due process.
