By Milcah Tanimu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has broadened its investigation into the large-scale movement of funds from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to private entities. The anti-graft agency has extended its probe to encompass directors and other key officials of the ministry and its affiliated agencies.
The high-ranking officials were summoned by the EFCC to meet with the suspended Minister, Dr. Betta Edu, and the suspended Coordinator of the National Social Intervention Programme, Halima Shehu. The inquiry also involved discussions with senior bank officials, whose facilities were employed to store substantial amounts of cash without adhering to financial reporting protocols.
According to a reliable source, the directors were called in to elucidate their roles in the ongoing investigation, revealing potential collusion between banks and ministry officials in surpassing legally permitted cash thresholds.
The summoned directors provided an account of their involvement in the matter and were required to formalize their statements before being released, as reported by a source. The EFCC emphasized its commitment to uncovering all relevant facts and ensuring a fair decision, regardless of the individuals’ influence.
The former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, did not appear before the EFCC on Wednesday. Instead, she is scheduled to meet with the investigative team at a later date. Following two consecutive days of questioning, she requested a day off, a plea that the EFCC granted.
In contrast, the current Minister, Betta Edu, who was suspended earlier in the week, presented herself for further questioning. Edu has consistently denied any wrongdoing in the alleged transfer of N585 million to a private account for the benefit of vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Ogun states.
The disagreement over the funds led to Edu’s suspension and subsequent directive from President Tinubu to cooperate with the EFCC’s investigation. Edu maintains her innocence, despite conflicting opinions, including that of the Accountant General of the Federation.
The exact amount of money involved in the alleged movement or laundering by Sadiya and Halima remains uncertain, and both individuals have not admitted to any wrongdoing in the matter.