Odita Sunday 
ICPC Never Invited Me’: Senator Ireti Kingibe Denies ₦100m Kickback Allegation, Alleges Political Smear
By Odita Sunday
Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has strongly denied allegations linking her to a ₦100 million kickback tied to a purported contract, describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.
The lawmaker was reacting to a publication by The Sun Nigeria, which alleged that she had been “dragged” to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over an alleged fraudulent contract.
In a statement, Kingibe dismissed the report in its entirety, stating that she has never been invited, queried, or contacted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on the matter or any related issue.
“Let it be stated categorically and without ambiguity, I have never been invited, queried, or contacted by the ICPC on this or any related matter,” she said.
She further clarified that, as a senator, she does not award contracts, including those linked to constituency projects, explaining that such projects are executed by relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in accordance with established procedures.
“I do not award contracts, not even for constituency projects. Any attempt to associate me with contract awards reflects either a misunderstanding of how government works or a deliberate act of misinformation,” she stated.
The senator questioned the timing of the publication, noting that it surfaced shortly after her appearance on ARISE Television, where she spoke on governance issues and criticised aspects of government performance.
“It is not lost on me that this publication surfaced the morning after my interview where I spoke candidly on the state of the nation,” she said.
Kingibe suggested that the report may be part of a broader pattern of attempts to intimidate voices critical of government policies.
“Those who speak truth to power must now contend with calculated attempts at intimidation and character assassination,” she added.
Despite the allegations, the senator reaffirmed her commitment to transparency and accountability, insisting that she would not be silenced.
“I will not be silenced. I remain resolute in my commitment to responsible governance,” she said.
She also indicated that she expects further attacks but remains undeterred.
“The Nigerian people deserve leaders who will speak boldly, not those who shrink from the truth,” Kingibe stated.
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