The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has seized the passports of the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, and her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq. The move is part of the ongoing investigations into scandals within the ministry, particularly the N44 billion fraud. Edu is currently being interrogated by EFCC investigators.
The scandal surrounding Edu came to light after a leaked memo revealed her directive to transfer N585 million to a private account owned by one Oniyelu Bridget. The payment was claimed to be for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states. Managing directors of three commercial banks were also reportedly questioned by the EFCC on Tuesday regarding their involvement in the fraud.
As part of her bail conditions, Edu’s passports were seized, preventing her from traveling out of the country. Similarly, her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, had her passport seized as part of her bail conditions following 12 hours of questioning on Monday.
Meanwhile, the National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme, Ms. Halima Shehu, who is also under investigation for alleged financial misappropriation, had her passport seized. She has been reporting to the EFCC daily as part of her bail conditions.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC) for using the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation as a “cash cow.” Atiku commended the suspension of Minister Edu but called for comprehensive reforms of the ministry. He accused the APC of weaponizing poverty and hunger for political control.
In response, the APC cautioned Atiku against jumping to conclusions, emphasizing the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. The party noted that President Tinubu’s swift response demonstrated a commitment to investigations and appropriate actions.
In a related development, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) called on President Tinubu to suspend and investigate the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, over his alleged involvement in a N438 million contract awarded by Edu. Tunji-Ojo denied the allegations, stating that he resigned as a director of the company in question in 2019.
As the investigations unfold, the situation remains dynamic, and further developments may occur based on the outcomes of the EFCC’s inquiries.
