President Tinubu Orders Probe into Alleged Financial Irregularities at Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs
In a recent development, President Bola Tinubu has directed a thorough investigation into the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, headed by Betta Edu. The announcement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement released today Sunday.
The controversy surrounding Edu revolves around her alleged involvement in the approval of a substantial sum, amounting to N585,198,500.00, intended to be disbursed into a personal account. According to reports, a letter purportedly signed by the humanitarian minister instructed the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Oluwatoyin Madein, to transfer the funds to the account of one Oniyelu Bridget, designated as a grant for vulnerable groups in four states.
However, Madein clarified that although her office received a payment request from the humanitarian ministry, no action was taken on it.
In response to the allegations, Edu, who at 37 is the youngest minister in the President’s cabinet, asserted that there were plans to tarnish her image and emphatically stated her commitment to avoiding embezzlement of government funds.
In Sunday’s statement, Information Minister Mohammed Idris acknowledged the public uproar over the situation, emphasizing the government’s determination to uncover the truth. He stated, “In light of recent events, the President has directed that a thorough and comprehensive investigation be conducted to ascertain the accuracy and validity of the reported details.”
Idris reassured the public that the government is committed to accountability and due process, adding, “Appropriate action will be taken to ensure that any breaches and infractions are identified and decisively punished.”
The information minister urged Nigerians to be patient as the investigation unfolds, emphasizing the government’s focus on a fair and unbiased process. He pledged to keep the public informed on the progress of the investigation, stating, “The findings will be communicated duly and transparently to the public.”
