Civil Society Organizations have called out the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for delaying its findings on the alleged N585 million fraud involving suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu.
In a statement signed by Aminu Abbas, convener of the CSO groups, they questioned the EFCC’s silence on the case, despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu suspending Dr. Edu in January 2024 over allegations of financial misappropriation.
The suspension was related to reports of unauthorized disbursement of N585 million.
Abbas expressed concern about Dr. Edu’s approval of flight fares for ministry staff traveling to Kogi State, even though Kogi does not have a functioning airport. “This decision raises serious questions about the misuse of public funds,” he said.
The CSOs also voiced their displeasure at what they see as unequal treatment between Dr. Edu and Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, who was suspended at the same time but has since been replaced. They urged the EFCC to release its findings on Dr. Edu’s case, arguing that the delay undermines the presidency’s anti-corruption efforts and public trust.
Abbas further stated, “While we commend the prompt action taken against Halima Shehu, we are dismayed by the presidency’s silence regarding Dr. Betta Edu. This selective accountability sends a troubling message about the administration’s commitment to justice.”
He added, “The Nigerian people have a right to know the truth behind these allegations. The delay in disclosing the findings is making Nigerians gradually lose their trust in the president’s stance against corrupt practices in the country.”
The CSOs urged President Tinubu to act by replacing Dr. Edu and emphasized the importance of transparency and equal treatment in handling corruption cases. “The public deserves clarity regarding the serious allegations, and the EFCC must act swiftly to restore trust in government institutions,” Abbas concluded.
