President Orders Probe into Alleged Financial Irregularities
Unveiling the Truth: President Tinubu Initiates Probes Minister
In a strong response to public concerns, President Bola Tinubu has initiated a comprehensive investigation into allegations of financial misconduct within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The move follows accusations against Minister Dr. Betta Edu regarding the disbursement of funds and approvals for questionable expenses.
President Tinubu is determined to uncover the truth and ensure appropriate action is taken. Any identified breaches of financial regulations will face decisive punishment, he vowed.
Edu allegedly directed a substantial payment to a private account, leading to disputes with the Accountant-General of the Federation, Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein. Furthermore, accusations include the approval of air tickets for non-existent flights to Kogi State.
To investigate the alleged fraud, President Tinubu has appointed Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, to head a panel. Calls for Edu’s removal and prosecution are growing, with political parties and advocacy groups expressing their concerns.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana criticized Edu for dismissing the allegations and urged swift action to address the issue. Similarly, SERAP called on Tinubu to direct relevant agencies for a thorough probe into the alleged fraud.
Despite the calls for removal, a pro-democracy women’s group, Nigeria Women Arise for Democracy, defended Edu, describing the allegations as baseless and urging President Tinubu to disregard the campaign against her.
The investigating panel, comprising serving ministers and top government officials, is actively reviewing the allegations. Minister Edu and the suspended National Coordinator of NSIPA, Halima Shehu, are expected to appear before the panel this week.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammad Idris, confirmed President Tinubu’s order and emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He urged Nigerians to exercise patience as the investigation unfolds, promising timely updates on the progress.
