Leaked Memo Reveals Controversial Disbursement of N3 Billion COVID-19 Palliative Fund

In a shocking revelation, Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, is under scrutiny as a leaked memo exposes the diversion of N3 billion from COVID-19 funds intended for the verification of the national social register.

The memo, dated September 18, 2023, and bearing reference number SH/145/A/220, was sent by Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, approving Edu’s request for the substantial sum. The president’s chief of staff stated, “Please be informed that Mr. President has approved the expenditure of N3,000,000,000.00 (three billion naira) only, from the Covid-19 Palliative Fund for verification of the National Social Register.”

The disbursement of the funds raised eyebrows as it went to nine companies, including one linked to Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, who claimed to have resigned from the company in 2019.

This development unfolded approximately two months after the National Economic Council (NEC), led by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, discarded the existing social register, citing credibility issues. NEC recommended the creation of state-specific registers, sparking controversy and resistance from citizens and the National Social Safety Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO).

The scandal further deepens as the House of Representatives issued a 72-hour ultimatum to Oluwatoyin Madein, Accountant General of the Federation, demanding a detailed report on the utilization of a separate N100 billion COVID-19 intervention fund. Despite the urgency, nothing has been heard since the ultimatum was given.

The humanitarian affairs ministry had previously come under scrutiny when a leaked memo revealed Edu’s request for the transfer of N585 million to a private account. The minister’s media aide claimed it followed due process and was a response to a blackmail tactic after fraud in the National Social Investment Programme (NSIPA) was exposed.

In response to the escalating scandal, President Tinubu suspended Edu and ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the ministry’s finances. Despite attempts to seek a reaction from the President’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, calls and messages went unanswered, leaving the nation in suspense over this unfolding controversy.