Suspended Minister Betta Edu Denied Access to President Tinubu Following N585m Graft Scandal.
In the aftermath of her suspension by President Bola Tinubu over the N585 million scandal, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, faced a setback as she was denied access to the President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
President Tinubu suspended Edu with immediate effect and directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the financial transactions involving the federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
The suspension is in line with President Tinubu’s commitment to upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability.
The suspended minister, Betta Edu accused of financial infractions related to the approval of payment of N585 million into private accounts, was not allowed to see President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
Although she had cleared security checks up to the president’s office, she was blocked from having a physical discussion with him.
President Tinubu’s action sends a strong message about his commitment to addressing corruption within the government.
The suspended minister’s access tag to the villa was withdrawn, and she was ferried out of the president’s office in a State House security vehicle.
Meanwhile, the EFCC is yet to officially summon the suspended minister for questioning, contrary to some reports.
A competent source clarified that the agency is in the process of inviting Edu to answer questions on the alleged financial misconduct. The invitation is expected to be sent within the week.
In a related development, former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hajiya Sadiya Umar-Farouq, has begun cooperating with EFCC investigators over a separate N44 billion scam.
Edu’s suspension has been met with both commendation and calls for thorough investigations from Civil Society Organizations, with ActionAid Nigeria urging transparency and accountability.
Senator Ali Ndume commended President Tinubu’s swift action but urged further measures to curtail the influence of an emerging political cartel within the administration.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s decision, emphasizing that it aligns with the law and the president’s commitment to anti-corruption.
As the investigations unfold, Nigerians await the outcome, expecting a meticulous examination of the alleged financial infractions and a decisive response in line with the law.
