ABUJA/Nigeria: In a decisive move reflecting a commitment to ethical governance, President Bola Tinubu has suspended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, effective immediately.
The suspension was disclosed in an official statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.
According to the statement, this action aligns with President Tinubu’s firm dedication to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the administration of Nigeria’s resources.
The statement issued directives from the President’s office, outlining a series of consequential steps. It mandates the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the financial transactions of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as affiliated agencies.
Furthermore, Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister, has been directed to promptly hand over her duties to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The President has emphasized her obligation to fully cooperate with the investigating authorities during the inquiry.
In addition to the suspension and investigation, President Tinubu has tasked a panel chaired by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance. Among its responsibilities, this panel is assigned to conduct an extensive evaluation of the financial structure and framework of the social investment programs. The ultimate goal is to implement comprehensive reforms within relevant institutions and programs, aiming to eradicate institutional weaknesses. This concerted effort aims to benefit disadvantaged households and restore public trust in these initiatives.
These directives from the President’s office are effective immediately, signifying a resolute stance to address alleged financial discrepancies and inefficiencies within critical government programs.
