Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Welcomes Court Order Remanding Alleged Impostor

• Feb 23, 2026

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has welcomed the decision of a Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Apo to remand a 66-year-old man for allegedly parading himself as a Public Relations consultant and trainer.

In a statement signed by Duke Imandu, Ag. Director, Public Relations, the NIPR reiterated its commitment to sanitising the profession and warned against unauthorised use of its name and credentials. The Institute said it remains resolute in protecting the integrity of Public Relations practice in Nigeria.

Negedu Patrick Siaka was arraigned before Justice Bello Kawu on a three-count charge bordering on impersonation, fraud and forgery. The court subsequently ordered his remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending a ruling on his bail application scheduled for February 25, 2026.

According to police reports, Siaka was arrested in November 2024 in the Wuse area of Abuja following an intelligence tip-off. He allegedly organised and conducted a training programme where he collected money from participants while falsely presenting himself as an NIPR-accredited consultant and trainer.

Investigators also reportedly found him in possession of letterheads and other official insignia belonging to the Institute. Further inquiries established that he is neither a registered member of the NIPR nor authorised to conduct professional training under its name.

During court proceedings, prosecuting counsel Barrister Okokon Mbruk opposed an oral application for bail, arguing that the nature of the charges required a surety with financial backing. Defence counsel Barrister F.M. Isong told the court that the defendant, a Lagos resident, had previously been granted administrative bail and had complied with all police invitations despite health challenges.

The case has been adjourned pending further proceedings.