George Nwabueze, coordinator of the National Brands Development and Made-in-Nigeria Special Project Office, has rejected allegations that his organisation is a fake government agency.
Nwabueze insisted that his office is legitimate and operates under the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
His defence followed reports linking the office to an investigation into alleged unauthorised government agencies and the reported directive for his arrest.
Nwabueze maintained that the organisation did not operate illegally, arguing that its activities and appointment were backed by the appropriate government structures.
The controversy reportedly intensified after the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) questioned the legal status and authorisation of the office.
The commission is said to have raised concerns over the agency’s operations despite its presence within the OSGF complex.
However, Nwabueze has challenged the allegations, reportedly presenting official documents which he said demonstrate the legitimacy of his appointment and the status of the office.
He also maintained that the organisation’s activities were focused on promoting Nigerian brands and supporting the development of made-in-Nigeria products.
The development has generated fresh questions over the process through which government offices and special project units are established, appointed and supervised.
As investigations continue, attention is now focused on the documents presented by Nwabueze and the response of the relevant government authorities regarding the legal status of the office.
The allegations against Nwabueze and the office remain subject to the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
