President Tinubu Orders Probe into N2tn Poverty Relief Funds; Minister Faces EFCC Today

In a decisive move to uphold integrity and transparency, President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the financial affairs of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The directive follows the suspension of Minister Betta Edu over a N585m scandal within the ministry.

The suspension of Edu coincides with her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, facing a 12-hour grilling by EFCC detectives over an alleged N37.1bn money laundering scheme during her tenure. The EFCC has summoned Edu to appear for questioning today.

President Tinubu, through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, stated that the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, would oversee a comprehensive investigation into the financial transactions of the ministry and its associated agencies. A panel, led by Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, has also been tasked with a diagnostic review of the social investment programs’ financial framework.

Edu’s suspension follows a leaked memo exposing a N585m payment to a private account, sparking public outrage. Various groups and individuals, including the Peoples Democratic Party and Femi Falana, had demanded her suspension and an unbiased probe.

The President’s directive aims to reform relevant institutions and programs to restore public confidence in the social investment initiatives. Edu is directed to cooperate fully with the investigation.

Despite the suspension, Edu’s attempt to meet with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa was unsuccessful, with security personnel denying her entry.

In a related development, the United Global Resolve for Peace has commended President Tinubu for suspending Edu, urging comprehensive reform in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo denied involvement in a consultancy contract linked to the ministry.

The unfolding scandal has ignited calls for increased transparency and accountability in the management of funds designated for poverty alleviation programs, as the EFCC intensifies efforts to unravel financial irregularities within the ministry.