A coalition of civil society organisations has voiced strong criticism over the recent public appearances of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Betta Edu, and has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to provide a comprehensive update on the ongoing investigation into allegations that led to her suspension.
Coalition Expresses Concern Over Edu's Public Engagements
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, May 28, the coalition, led by the Empowerment for Unemployed Youth Initiatives (EUYI), expressed deep concern regarding Edu's participation in public events, including alleged appearances alongside Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The groups emphasised that such visibility, while the investigation remains unresolved, undermines public trust in the anti-corruption process.
President Bola Tinubu suspended Edu in January 2024 following a public outcry over financial transactions within her ministry. The EFCC subsequently confirmed that it was investigating the allegations. However, the coalition noted a lack of transparency regarding the probe's progress.
Demand for Clarity and Accountability
The coalition's convener, Kennedy Tabuko, stated, "The issue is not just about Betta Edu alone, but about strengthening public confidence in accountability and transparency within government institutions." He stressed that Nigerians deserve clarity from anti-corruption agencies on the outcome of the investigation.
The groups called on the EFCC to publicly clarify the status of its investigation within five days. Failure to do so, they warned, could lead to peaceful protests organised by coalition members. "We believe Nigerians deserve to know the current position of the investigation and whether any further action will be taken," Tabuko added.
Background of the Investigation
President Tinubu had earlier ordered the EFCC to conduct a thorough investigation into the finances of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. This directive was announced by his former aide, Ajuri Ngelale, who also confirmed Edu's suspension. The presidency reportedly denied Edu access to the President at Aso Villa hours after the suspension.
In compliance with the presidential directive, the EFCC summoned Edu to appear before its detectives. However, the findings of the probe have not been made public. Betta Edu has consistently denied any wrongdoing since her suspension.
As of the time of filing this report, the EFCC has not issued any fresh statement regarding the matter. The coalition's ultimatum underscores growing public demand for transparency in high-profile corruption investigations.
