I Acted Alone!” — Ex-Aide Confesses To Signing Deals Without VP Shettima’s Approval
I Acted Alone!” — Ex-Aide Confesses To Signing Deals Without VP Shettima’s Approval
Former Special Assistant on Digital and Creative Economy to Vice President Kashim Shettima, Fegho Umunubo, has revealed why he signed several project agreements without formal authorisation from his principal
Umunubo, who was dismissed over allegations of unauthorised dealings and abuse of office, was accused of entering into contracts without official clearance and meddling in the affairs of agencies under the Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy.
Following an internal investigation, the Presidency suspended and subsequently relieved him of his duties in September 2025, warning industry stakeholders against conducting any business with him on behalf of the government.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, Umunubo explained that his actions stemmed from an effort to manage the overwhelming number of funding requests he received from players in the creative industry.
According to him, his team handled close to 50 projects, prompting him to set up a structured system to streamline support requests.
“The number of people reaching out for funding was massive, and it became difficult to manage. So, I created a structure. We told applicants we would support them, but they needed to wait 60 working days before any funds could be released,” he said.
“It wasn’t my personal money. I had to seek funds to help them, and that’s why I introduced agreements — for proper documentation. I used my office to facilitate that.”
When asked whether he had received the Vice President’s approval, Umunubo admitted he had not.
“That was my mistake. For everything I did in that office, I submitted reports. People in the Villa were aware of my activities, but I didn’t specifically inform my boss that I was having those agreements signed. I only wanted documentation,” he clarified.
Umunubo described his failure to notify the Vice President as his only lapse in judgment.
“The only mistake I made was not telling my boss about the agreements. I honestly didn’t think it was a big deal at the time. If I could change anything, that would be it,” he added.
