Publicise your findings on Betta Edu’s Investigation — Group tells EFCC  – Crime Channels

Publicise your findings on Betta Edu’s Investigation — Group tells EFCC

A coalition of civil society organizations known as the Concerned Civil Society Organisations of Nigeria (CCSON) has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to publicly release its findings regarding the investigation of Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

Edu was suspended by President Bola Tinubu on January 8, following allegations that she diverted N585.189 million in grants intended for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states into a private account.

This suspension came amid increasing scrutiny of her management of the ministry’s resources, particularly in relation to poverty alleviation programs.

The situation escalated further when it emerged that Edu had approved travel expenses for ministry staff to Kogi State, which notably does not have an operational airport.

While the EFCC reported recovering N30 billion linked to Edu’s ministry from 50 different accounts, it has yet to disclose its complete findings.

In response to a statement from an aide to House of Representatives Speaker Cecelia Ogbeche Odok, who labeled Edu’s trial a witch-hunt and claimed her innocence, CCSON expressed concern over the lack of action regarding Edu’s case.

They highlighted that Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), who was suspended alongside Edu, has already been replaced, but no action has been taken against the minister.

The group criticized the apparent inaction from the presidency, pointing out the disparity in treatment between Edu and Shehu, which they believe undermines accountability and fairness in governance.

“While we commend the swift action against Halima Shehu, we are alarmed by the presidency’s silence on Dr. Betta Edu’s situation. This selective accountability raises serious questions about the administration’s commitment to justice for all Nigerians,” the statement read.

CCSON has called on President Tinubu to promptly replace Edu, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment and transparency in government actions.

They asserted that the public deserves clarity regarding these serious allegations and that the EFCC must act quickly to restore trust in government institutions.

As calls for transparency intensify, the civil society group advocates for a comprehensive investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds, arguing that accountability is essential for effective governance.

They insist that the EFCC must disclose its findings, asserting that Nigerians have a right to know the truth behind these allegations, warning that delays could erode trust in President Tinubu’s commitment to combating corruption.