Fresh reports indicate that Prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN),may have withdrawn from legal representation of Mathew Adeniyi Adeyemi, who is the self-acclaimed Director-General of the controversial PFIPC.This is said to be happening amid growing concerns over the credibility of the case and the alleged conduct of the defendant.
Falana had had reportedly earlier indicated his willingness to defend Adeyemi following his allegations against the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila and the operations of the purported agency.
However, sources familiar with the matter now suggest that the senior advocate has stepped back after encountering difficulties in obtaining verifiable information and supporting documentation from Adeyemi.
According to sources close to the legal team, Adeyemi allegedly failed to provide critical documents and evidence requested by Falana to build a coherent defense. The situation reportedly raised red flags, with claims that Adeyemi could not substantiate several of the allegations he had previously made, including those directed at the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Further complicating the matter are allegations that Falana uncovered a pattern of inconsistencies linked to Adeyemi’s past activities, described by some insiders as questionable. These concerns, sources say, contributed to the decision to disengage from the case.
Insiders also revealed that despite earlier efforts by Falana to facilitate adequate security arrangements for Adeyemi’s court appearance, the defendant allegedly showed reluctance to present himself for trial and preferred media interviews from different hideouts. Adeyemi was eventually arrested last week in Osun State after reportedly evading authorities.
In a significant development, Falana did not appear in court on July 14, 2026, at the Federal High Court in Abuja for Adeyemi’s defense. His absence, alongside Adeyemi’s failure to be present, led the court to issue a bench warrant for Adeyemi’s arrest.
As at the time of filing this report, neither Falana nor his legal chambers has issued an official public statement confirming his withdrawal from the case. Calls and inquiries seeking clarification were not immediately returned.
Recall that the PFIPC matter continues to draw attention amid broader concerns about the emergence of unauthorized entities presenting themselves as government-affiliated institutions. The trial of Adeyemi Mathew was adjourned till September 30, 2026.