The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that it arrested or is investigating James Omotosho, a judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja. A viral video shared online had alleged that the anti-corruption agency detained the judge over corruption-related allegations, sparking widespread speculation across social media platforms.
However, in a statement issued on Tuesday, John Okor Odey, spokesperson for the commission, said the claims were false and urged the public to disregard them.
“The commission states categorically that the claim contained in the video is entirely untrue and intended to spread mischief and mislead members of the public,” the statement read.
Odey clarified that the commission had not taken any action against the judge, emphasizing that the reports circulating online were misleading.
“ICPC wishes to clarify that it has neither arrested nor invited Justice James Omotosho in relation to any investigation,” he said.
“The commission is also not investigating the Honourable Judge as alleged in the video,” the statement added, stressing that the allegations lack any factual basis.
The anti-graft agency also reminded the public that it does not have the authority to investigate serving members of the judiciary.
“For the avoidance of doubt the ICPC has no mandate to investigate serving judicial Officers. And the Commission is an agency that has very high regards for not only the honourable Justice James Omotosho but for all judicial Officers in Nigeria,” Odey stated.
He further urged the public to avoid sharing unverified claims online. “The commission therefore urges members of the public to disregard the misleading content and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary public concern and damaging reputations,” the statement said.
The ICPC’s clarification comes amid recurring disinformation campaigns targeting Justice Omotosho since 2025, following the conviction and sentencing of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, on terrorism-related charges.