In a decisive move, President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the financial affairs of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The directive was issued through a statement on Monday by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, who also announced the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, in connection with a N585 million scandal within the ministry.
The titled statement, “President Tinubu Suspends Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation from Office,” disclosed that Edu’s suspension coincided with her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, being grilled by EFCC detectives over the alleged laundering of N37.1 billion during her tenure. The investigation revolves around the involvement of a contractor, James Okwete.
Tinubu’s directive includes summoning Edu to appear before EFCC detectives on Tuesday (today). The President has also tasked a panel led by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, to conduct a comprehensive diagnostic of the financial architecture and framework of the social investment programs.
The statement read, “In line with his avowed commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of the commonwealth of Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu suspends the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, from office with immediate effect.”
Furthermore, the President ordered Edu to hand over to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and fully cooperate with investigating authorities.
The scandal surrounding Edu erupted following a leaked memo revealing her instruction to transfer N585 million to a private account, leading to widespread public demand for her suspension and an unfettered investigation. The President’s actions are aimed at restoring public confidence in the ministry and its programs, especially those intended for the benefit of disadvantaged households.
In response to her suspension, Edu was directed to report to EFCC headquarters for questioning. Her attempts to meet with Tinubu after the suspension were thwarted, as she was denied entry by security personnel at the Presidential Villa.
The United Global Resolve for Peace, a civil society group, commended President Tinubu for the suspension and called for a comprehensive reformation of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to ensure transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in addressing societal needs and poverty alleviation.