A fresh twist has emerged in the ongoing trial involving the controversial PFIPC, with prominent human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, reportedly withdrawing from representing Mathew Adeniyi Adeyemi.
Falana had earlier indicated his readiness to defend Adeyemi, who describes himself as the Director-General of PFIPC, following allegations involving the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and issues surrounding the organisation’s operations.
However, sources familiar with the matter said the senior lawyer later stepped away from the case after reportedly encountering difficulties obtaining key documents and information needed to prepare the defence.
According to the sources, Adeyemi was unable to provide several documents requested by the legal team, a development they said influenced Falana’s reported decision to discontinue his involvement.
The sources also alleged that efforts were made to secure Adeyemi’s appearance before the court during earlier proceedings, but he failed to attend.
He was later arrested in Osun State after law enforcement authorities declared him wanted in connection with the case.
At proceedings before the Federal High Court in Abuja on July 14, 2026, Falana did not appear as counsel for Adeyemi. The defendant was also absent, prompting the court to issue a bench warrant for his arrest.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Falana nor his law chambers had issued an official statement confirming or denying the reported withdrawal. Efforts to obtain comments from the Senior Advocate were unsuccessful.
The case has continued to attract public attention amid concerns over organisations allegedly presenting themselves as government-affiliated institutions without official authorisation. The matter has been adjourned until September 30, 2026, for further proceedings.