Businesswoman Dr. Halimat Adenike Tejuosho has alleged that she was drawn into a massive appointment-for-sale scheme orchestrated by a man identified as Malam Ibrahim Gidado, who allegedly posed as a senior security operative with links to the Presidency and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
In a statement submitted to authorities, Tejuosho claimed the matter began in November 2023 after she was introduced to Gidado through a cleric and former Nasarawa commissioner, Abu Miliki.
According to her, Gidado presented himself as an intelligence operative attached to the NSA’s office and demanded millions of naira and large sums in foreign currency to facilitate federal appointments and arrange access to President Bola Tinubu.
She alleged that she initially paid ₦10 million in cash for “mobilisation and security clearance,” followed by another ₦50 million equivalent in dollars after being promised a meeting with the President that never materialised.
Tejuosho further claimed Gidado later demanded up to $1 million for a ministerial appointment, insisting that substantial payments be made upfront. She said she eventually paid $500,000 in tranches between January and February 2024.
According to her account, the alleged scheme later expanded to include other individuals seeking strategic government positions, including roles in NNPC Limited, NBET and ministerial offices.
She alleged that several persons paid huge sums through her, including ₦80 million allegedly paid by Sani Dantanko for the NBET position, ₦50 million from Yakumut Alhassan for a ministerial slot, and ₦10 million from Osita Opara for a presidential aide role.
Tejuosho also claimed another woman identified as Mrs. Sholoye later paid hundreds of millions of naira in pursuit of the top NNPC position, with part of the funds allegedly used to sponsor protests and media campaigns against former NNPC boss Mele Kyari.
She said the arrangement eventually collapsed after official appointments were announced and none of the interested persons secured positions, leading to demands for refunds and the disappearance of Gidado.
The matter was later reported to the EFCC after petitions were filed against her. Tejuosho said she cooperated with investigators and maintained that she only acted as an intermediary while Gidado was the principal beneficiary of the funds.
She also disclosed that she battled serious health challenges, including a brain tumour, diabetes and hypertension, during the investigation period.
The EFCC has not publicly commented on the allegations.