Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for delaying the release of its findings on the alleged N585 million fraud involving suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu.
The CSOs’ press statement, signed by Aminu Abbas, Convener of the groups, questioned the EFCC’s silence on the matter, despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s suspension of Dr. Edu in January 2024, following allegations of financial misappropriation.
The suspension was prompted by reports of unauthorized disbursement of N585 million.
According to him, further controversy surrounds Dr. Edu’s approval of flight fares for ministry staff travelling to Kogi State, despite the region lacking an operational airport.
He explained that this decision has raised concerns about the mismanagement of public funds.
The CSOs also expressed alarm over the apparent disparity in treatment between Dr. Edu’s case and that of Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, who was suspended alongside Dr. Edu but has since been replaced.
The groups demanded transparency and accountability from the EFCC, urging the commission to make public its findings on the alleged misappropriation.
They argue that the delay undermines the presidency’s stance on corruption and erodes public trust.
Abbas 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 commitment of this administration to uphold justice for all Nigerians.
“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.
“We urge the President to take immediate action by replacing Dr. Betta Edu, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment across all regions and the importance of transparency in government actions. The public deserves clarity regarding the serious allegations and the EFCC must act swiftly to restore trust in government institutions.”
Vanguard
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