President Bola Tinubu has suspended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, with immediate effect. The decision, conveyed through a statement by presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale, reflects the President’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in governance.
President Tinubu has instructed the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into all financial transactions involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, along with its associated agencies. The directive emphasizes the need to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilization of public resources.
The suspended minister is required to hand over to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and she has been directed by the President to fully cooperate with the investigating authorities during the probe.
Additionally, a panel headed by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive diagnostic of the financial architecture and framework of the social investment programs. The goal is to reform relevant institutions and programs, eliminating institutional frailties to benefit disadvantaged households and restore public confidence in the initiative.
These directives from President Tinubu are effective immediately, signifying the urgency and seriousness attached to the investigation and reform process.
In response to her suspension, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially invited Betta Edu for questioning at its headquarters in Abuja. A source within the EFCC confirmed that the suspended minister had been summoned and is expected to appear at the commission’s office on Tuesday.
The investigation follows President Tinubu’s suspension of Betta Edu from office, prompted by a controversial payment of N585.189 million to a private bank account. The EFCC had earlier recommended the suspension to facilitate a thorough investigation, and the official invitation aims to ensure a comprehensive examination of the alleged financial irregularities.
President Tinubu’s decisive actions underscore the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of public resources, as well as its determination to address any form of financial misconduct within its ranks.
