Justice Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has denied the Federal Government (FG)’s involvement in the acquisition of First Bank Holdings (First Holdco) shares.
Fagbemi denied the allegation on Friday in a statement signed by Kamarudeen Ogundele, SA to the President on Communication and Publicity, Office of the AGF and Minister of Justice.
“We are compelled to respond to a publication by ThisDay Newspaper of July 17, 2025, and Arise TV suggesting that 25% of First Bank Holdings (First Holdco) shares were transferred to the Federal Government of Nigeria’s (FGN) trustee,” the statement read in part.
“The report is inaccurate, misleading, resentful and malicious. Neither the Federal Government of Nigeria nor the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice participated in acquiring the shares in question.
“The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice debunks this falsehood to prevent confusion or misconceptions about First Holdco’s ownership and governance.”
Ogundele said that the circumstances surrounding the shareholding structure are distinct from any government involvement.
“However, it is aware of a trustee set up by the First Holdco, with the CBN approving Stanbic IBTC to oversee it as a third party,” he added.
“We urge the media to exercise restraint, professionalism, and due diligence in carrying out their duties to avoid violating the law.
“We assure the public of continuous commitment to the promotion of the Rule of Law, Justice, equity, accountability, transparency and service to the nation by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.”
