ICPC raises alarm over “fabricated” N50bn bribery video

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed as false a widely circulated video alleging a N50 billion bribery scandal, describing the content as fabricated and deliberately designed to mislead the public.

A statement on Monday by Okor Odey, Spokesperson for the commission, said the viral video has no connection to the agency and does not reflect any ongoing investigation within its mandate.

The Commission stated that elements contained in the footage, including images, names, and narrative claims, were entirely fictitious, with some portions suspected to have been generated using artificial intelligence.

“The images, names, and content in the video are fabricated and, in some instances, AI-generated, designed solely to mislead unsuspecting members of the public,” the statement said.

The anti-corruption body stressed that it has not issued any report, statement, or communication supporting the claims made in the video, particularly allegations linking any individual, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), group of lawyers, or judicial officer to the purported bribery case.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the ICPC is not investigating any individual, SAN, group of lawyers, or judicial officer in connection with the fictitious N50 billion bribe referenced in the video.

“No such case, transaction, or investigation exists within the records of the commission,” the statement clarified.

The commission further warned those responsible for producing and disseminating the video to cease immediately, vowing to pursue legal action against anyone found culpable.

“The ICPC will not tolerate the misuse of its name and institutional credibility to spread disinformation in the name of ‘content creation’,” ICPC added, stressing that perpetrators would face “serious legal consequences.”

The agency urged the public to disregard the video and rely solely on its official communication channels for accurate and verified information,

It also reiterated its commitment to conducting credible, evidence-based investigations in line with the law.