Right of Reply: PCC Commissioner Rebuts Allegations, Clarifies Sequence of Events

The Taraba State Commissioner of the Public Complaints Commission (PCC), Nuhu Sabo, has issued a detailed response to a publication by Taraba Truth & Facts of April 17, 2026, which alleged bribery, nepotism and abuse of office against him.

In a comprehensive statement, Sabo said the report, which was based on claims by Kwensa Alabura Kaigama, did not present the full context of events and omitted key procedural facts.

He explained that the complaint referenced in the publication, relating to the appointment of a Director of Finance in Takum Local Government, was not directly filed before the commission but copied to it alongside other institutions. Despite this, the PCC reviewed the matter in line with its oversight mandate and concluded its findings, which were subsequently forwarded to the Taraba State Local Government Service Commission for administrative action.

According to Sabo, at no time was the report withheld as alleged. He stated that a formal request for a Certified True Copy of the investigation report was later submitted through a legal practitioner, and the process for release required clearance from the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, in compliance with established administrative procedures.

He further disclosed that the petitioner instituted a legal action—Motion No. FHC/JAL/M/45/2026—before the Federal High Court, Jalingo Division, seeking to compel the release of the report. However, the case was withdrawn by the applicant and struck out by the court on April 24, 2026.

On the allegation of bribery involving a sum of N50,000, Sabo described the claim as entirely unfounded, stating that no money was requested or received either directly or indirectly. He also maintained that he has never met the petitioner.

The commissioner confirmed that petitions on the same matter were submitted to both the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in July and August 2025, respectively. While he honoured an invitation by the ICPC on December 1, 2025, he noted that there has been no further communication from the agency. He added that the EFCC has not extended any invitation to him on the issue.

Providing additional context, Sabo stated that official records indicated that the petitioner was, at the time of the complaint, a staff member of the Primary Health Care Department of Takum Local Government and not of the Finance Department. He noted that the petitioner only applied for inter-departmental transfer and conversion to the administrative cadre on March 17, 2026—nearly two years after the initial complaint was filed.

He also clarified that the complaint was submitted to both the Local Government Service Commission and the PCC on the same date, contrary to claims that the former failed to act before the matter was escalated.

Sabo emphasized that the commission’s role in the matter was limited to investigation and recommendation, and that implementation of any action rests with the appropriate authorities. He reiterated that due process was followed throughout and that no file was deliberately withheld.

The commissioner, who is currently serving a second term following his reappointment, reaffirmed his commitment to ethical standards and accountability in public office.

He urged the public to rely on verified information and allow institutional processes to run their course in addressing the issues raised.