Human Rights Activist Urges President Tinubu to Investigate and Suspend Minister Betta Edu

Human Rights Activist Urges President Tinubu to Investigate and Suspend Minister Over Financial Misappropriation Allegations

Renowned human rights activist Deji Adeyanju has called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action against the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, if found guilty of financial misappropriation.

Adeyanju emphasized the need for a transparent and independent investigation into the alleged scandal.

The controversy arose after a memo surfaced, revealing Edu’s directive to the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, to transfer N585.2 million into a private account belonging to Oniyelu Bridget, purportedly the Project Accountant for Grants for Vulnerable Groups in the Ministry.

While Edu claimed the transaction followed due process, the Accountant-General expressed a contrary opinion.

In response, Adeyanju, the convener of Concerned Nigerians, commended the Accountant-General for refusing to comply with Edu’s request, citing Nigeria’s Financial Regulations 2009, which prohibits the deposit of personal funds into government accounts and vice versa.

Adeyanju applauded the Accountant-General’s commitment to upholding accountability and transparency in managing public finances, urging President Tinubu to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

He stressed the importance of taking appropriate action against Edu if found guilty, including suspending her pending further disciplinary measures.

Highlighting the gravity of the alleged violation, Adeyanju asserted that such actions undermine public confidence in the government’s anti-corruption efforts and the prudent management of public resources.

He emphasized the need to preserve democracy by holding accountable those responsible for financial impropriety.

Adeyanju’s call for swift and decisive action underscores the growing concern over the alleged misuse of public funds, signaling the importance of upholding ethical standards in governance and maintaining public trust in the government’s integrity.