Civil Society Organizations are demanding answers from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission regarding the delayed findings on the alleged N585 million fraud involving suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu.
Despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu suspending Dr. Edu in January 2024 over allegations of financial misappropriation, the EFCC has remained silent on the matter.
The convener of the CSO groups, Aminu Abbas, expressed concern about Dr. Edu’s approval of flight fares for ministry staff traveling to Kogi State, despite Kogi not having a functioning airport.
“This decision raises serious questions about the misuse of public funds,” he said.
The CSOs also pointed out the unequal treatment between Dr. Edu and Halima Shehu, National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, who was suspended at the same time but has since been replaced.
Abbas emphasized, “While we commend the prompt action taken against Halima Shehu, we are dismayed by the presidency’s silence regarding Dr. Betta Edu. This selective accountability sends a troubling message about the administration’s commitment to justice.
“The Nigerian people have a right to know the truth behind these allegations. The delay in disclosing the findings is making Nigerians gradually lose their trust in the president’s stance against corrupt practices in the country.”
The CSOs urged President Tinubu to replace Dr. Edu, stressing the importance of transparency and equal treatment in handling corruption cases.
“The public deserves clarity regarding the serious allegations, and the EFCC must act swiftly to restore trust in government institutions,” Abbas concluded.
Interestingly, there are indications that Dr. Edu has assumed her roles despite being under suspension and investigation by the EFCC.
This development has likely added to the CSOs’ frustration, highlighting the need for the EFCC to release its findings and for President Tinubu to take decisive action.
