The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been under fire from Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) for holding off the publication of its report on the purported N585 million scam involving Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
In a press release, the Convener of the CSOs, Aminu Abbas, questioned the EFCC’s lack of response to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s January 2024 suspension of Dr. Edu due to accusations of financial mismanagement. Reports of the unauthorised disbursement of N585 million led to the suspension.
He claims that even though Kogi State doesn’t have an airport, Dr. Edu’s clearance of airfare costs for ministry employees visiting the state is nonetheless controversial. He clarified that questions concerning the improper use of public monies had been raised by this decision.
Concerning the apparent difference in treatment between Dr. Edu’s case and that of Halima Shehu, the CEO and National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Program Agency, who was suspended along with Dr. Edu but was later replaced, the CSOs also voiced concern. The groups pushed for the EFCC to release its findings regarding the purported misappropriation and demanded accountability and openness from the agency.
They contend that the delay damages public confidence and calls into question the administration’s position on corruption. “We applaud the swift action taken against Halima Shehu, but we are appalled by the presidency’s silence regarding Dr. Betta Edu,” Abbas said. This administration’s pledge to protect justice for all Nigerians is called into question by this selective accountability.
“The people of Nigeria are entitled to know the veracity of these accusations. Nigerians are beginning to lose faith in the president’s efforts to combat corruption in the nation as a result of the prolonged withholding of the results.
“We implore the President to act immediately and replace Dr. Betta Edu, stressing the significance of openness in government operations and the requirement for fair treatment in all regions.
To rebuild public confidence in government institutions, the EFCC must move quickly to address the grave accusations and provide the public with information.
