Abuja, Nigeria – Independent Policy and Media Initiative (IMPI), a civil society organization (CSO), has called on President Bola Tinubu to make public the investigation report into the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Betta Edu. The organization believes that transparency in the handling of corruption allegations is crucial to demonstrate the government’s commitment to tackling corruption.
Earlier this month, President Tinubu suspended Dr Betta Edu after a memo surfaced in which she allegedly requested the transfer of 585 million naira to a personal account owned by Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, the Auditor General of the Federation.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, IMPI chairman Niyi Akinsiju commended the president for his swift response to the corruption allegations. Akinsiju stressed the importance of making the investigation report public, saying it would send a clear signal to both domestic and international audiences about the administration’s commitment to tackling corruption.
“While we await the outcome of the ongoing investigation, we urge the President not to succumb to pressure but to ensure that reports on this and other investigations involving government officials are made public in the spirit of transparency.“, Akinsiju said.
The organization believes such transparency would be in line with recent statements by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his visit to Nigeria, acknowledging the government’s efforts in fighting corruption.
IMPI also took the opportunity to acknowledge the Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to ensuring food security in the country. Akinsiju highlighted various policies, including the irrigation scheme and exemption from importation of tractors and agricultural implements, as initiatives that contribute to the administration’s goal of achieving year-round farming.
The organization expressed optimism that these measures will lead to adequate food supply in the country. Additionally, Akinsiju noted the positive impact of removing the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), stating that it has contributed to increasing revenue for the country.
