Federal Government Launches Investigation into N585 Million Palliative Scandal, Announces Probe Led by Mohammed Idris

In a recent development, Infostride News has uncovered a potential financial discrepancy involving the alleged transfer of a N585 million grant intended for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states into a private account. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced on Sunday that the federal government is actively investigating this matter and urged the public to await the results of a thorough inquiry before drawing conclusions.

According to a viral document circulating online, purportedly signed by Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, the funds were directed to be disbursed into the private account of Bridget Mojisola Oniyelu. The leaked document further disclosed that the substantial sum was indeed deposited into Oniyelu’s account, raising concerns about the transparency and legality of such transactions.

Responding to these allegations, Minister Idris emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the utilization of public funds. He stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to ensure that public funds are allocated and used effectively to meet the needs of Nigerians. In light of the gravity of the situation, President Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive investigation to validate the accuracy and legitimacy of the reported details.

“The government is determined to unravel the truth as it relates to this matter and assures that appropriate action will be taken to ensure that any breaches and infractions are identified and decisively punished, in line with the Administration’s commitment to public accountability and due process,” Minister Idris affirmed.

Moreover, the Minister assured the public that only accurate details would be shared during the progress of the investigation. He urged Nigerians to exercise patience as the government focuses on ensuring a fair and unbiased process. The findings of the investigation, he promised, would be communicated duly and transparently to the public.

Providing a backstory to the unfolding saga, Infostride News reported that the leaked document, allegedly signed by Minister Edu, directed the disbursement of the N585.189 million grant into Bridget Mojisola Oniyelu’s private account. This revelation prompted public scrutiny and raised questions about due process.

In response to the allegations, Edu’s Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Rasheed Zubair, asserted that the payment followed due process. Zubair clarified that Oniyelu, serving as the project accountant of Grants for Vulnerable Groups, was legally entitled to receive and use the funds, retiring them with proper receipts and evidence upon the project’s completion.

Contrary to Edu’s claims, Oluwatoyin Madein, the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), refuted carrying out the minister’s request. Madein categorically stated that no bulk money should be made to an individual’s account in the name of a Project Accountant, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the transaction.

As Infostride News delves deeper into this unfolding financial controversy, the public is keenly awaiting the results of the government’s investigation to shed light on the truth behind the alleged misappropriation of the N585 million grant. The commitment to transparency and accountability in handling public funds remains a focal point as the government works towards resolving this matter.