Human Rights Lawyer, Femi Falana, has called on the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Betta Edu, to cease insulting Nigerians and address the serious allegations of a N585 million fraud.
Falana’s statement comes in response to a leaked memo revealing the minister’s directive to transfer the substantial sum to a private account, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
The controversy erupted on Friday as a memo dated December 20, 2023, surfaced, indicating that Edu instructed the Accountant-General of the Federation to transfer N585 million to a private account belonging to Oniyelu Bridget, purportedly the Project Accountant for Grants for Vulnerable Groups.
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The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation defended the transaction, asserting that due process was followed.
However, Falana highlighted the minister’s failure to deny approving the payment, emphasizing that it contradicted established rules and regulations. He criticized Edu for dismissing the N585.18 million fraud allegation as a fabrication by detractors, asserting that such claims undermine efforts to combat corruption and assist the less privileged.
Falana commended the Accountant-General for preventing the criminal diversion of the funds but emphasized that the attempted felony had already occurred. He urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to expedite its investigation into the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, emphasizing the need to bring all implicated individuals before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory.
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In conclusion, Falana’s statement underscores the urgency of addressing the scandal, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in public office.
The call for a swift investigation by the EFCC reflects growing concerns about financial impropriety and underscores the need for a thorough examination of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs’ actions.
