President Bola Tinubu has instructed a thorough investigation into the alleged N585m scandal within the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. In response to public outrage, Tinubu expressed determination to decisively punish any individuals found in breach of financial regulations during the inquiry, as anger grows over the reported diversion of funds.
The controversy centers on a leaked memo from Minister Betta Edu instructing a payment of N585m into a private bank account. Despite Edu claiming the funds were designated for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states, various groups, including the Peoples Democratic Party, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, and Femi Falana, have called for an unbiased investigation.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, issued a statement affirming the President’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The statement assured Nigerians that appropriate action would be taken following the investigation’s findings, cautioning against circulating unverified narratives on social media.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana criticized Edu’s dismissal of the allegations, citing a breach of financial rules. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) demanded Edu’s immediate dismissal and prosecution for alleged money laundering, citing a violation of financial regulations. Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project also called for a thorough probe to ensure transparency in public fund usage.
The controversy extends to allegations of misuse of funds for travel expenses, including flight tickets and airport taxis, by Edu and her team to Kogi State. An internal memo revealed approved funds for the trip, raising further concerns about financial accountability within the ministry.
As calls for accountability intensify, the President faces pressure to uphold transparency, with civil society groups urging a comprehensive audit of political appointees and civil servants to combat corruption effectively. The unfolding investigation is poised to shed light on the alleged financial irregularities within the ministry and determine appropriate disciplinary actions.
