In a resolute stance against corruption and financial misconduct, the Presidency under President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning that no one found guilty will be spared in the ongoing investigation into financial infractions within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, including its Social Investment Programmes.
The declaration was made by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, during his appearance on TVC’s “Politics on Sunday” programme.
This development follows President Tinubu’s suspension of Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, due to concerns surrounding the payment of approximately N585 million into a private account.
President Tinubu has taken a proactive stance by instructing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to undertake a comprehensive investigation into all aspects of the financial transactions involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as its affiliated agencies.
Additionally, a panel, led by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, has been tasked with conducting a thorough diagnostic assessment of the financial architecture and framework of the social investment programmes. The aim is to address any institutional weaknesses, ultimately benefiting disadvantaged households and rebuilding public trust in the initiative.
Chief Ngelale emphasized, “The President has given full instruction to the EFCC chairman to not only conduct a thorough investigation. No name should be left out if they are found wanting in the situation. No sacred cows at all.”
The move to hold all accountable extends to any avenue the investigation may explore, signifying a determination to root out corruption and uphold transparency and accountability within the ministry.
The suspended minister, Dr. Betta Edu, faced significant backlash after a leaked memo on December 20 revealed her direction to the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, to transfer N585 million to a private account owned by one Oniyelu Bridget, who the ministry claimed serves as the Project Accountant for Grants for Vulnerable Groups.
Furthermore, Chief Ngelale asserted that President Tinubu has made it unequivocally clear to all members of his administration that he will not tolerate indiscipline, corruption, dereliction of duty, or any form of incompetence.
He assured that President Tinubu is committed to addressing any issues promptly, stating, “If he fully understands that somebody is not up to the task, he will fix the problem and fix it as quickly as possible.”
