In response to allegations of financial irregularities against the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Betta Edu, claims have emerged that she strictly followed established due process. Practicing lawyer and Barrister Jim Ekpeyong has shed light on the matter, highlighting documents that reflect a commitment to due process.
Ekpeyong, who is well versed in modern administrative procedures, asserted that key officials, especially Halima Shehu from the ministry, appeared to have distanced themselves from the controversy, describing it as a tactical move. He called on President Bola Tinubu to seek further clarification on the matter.
According to Mr Ekpeyong, documents show that Edu was involved in the request for the fund transaction which was approved and executed into the account of Assistant Director Mrs Oniyelu Bridget Mojisola, in line with the financial regulations applicable to Ministries, Departments, Agencies and Agencies (MDAs).
The documents released highlight Edu’s compliance with established procedures within the humanitarian ministry, supported by the MDA Financial Regulations. The documents detail Ms Bridget’s role in overseeing financial activities related to the programme and highlight the FG’s 2021 payment to the personal accounts of the project accountant within the MDA.
Despite the controversy, the documents argue that Edu’s actions were in accordance with established procedures, emphasizing Ms. Bridget’s responsibility to manage disbursements and retirements according to specific regulations.
These funds were allegedly meant for beneficiaries under the supervision and management of Ms. Bridget through the payment system. Ms. Bridget, an Assistant Director in the department, is said to have no connection to Dr. Betta Edu.
A ministry source defended Ms Bridget, insisting that the process for requesting payment was well established and there was no illegality. The source questioned the motive behind the controversy, suggesting it could be a ploy to tarnish the government’s image.
In response to calls for Edu to resign, the source cited her proactive reporting of the $44 billion missing from the NSIPA account, which was later recovered for $39.8 billion. The source stressed that no money was missing and that the program’s transactions were successful.
Ekpeyong concluded that Edu had done nothing illegal and was facing a trap set by individuals seeking to embarrass the government. He urged President Tinubu to look closely into the activities of older politicians against the new appointees, praising Edu’s dedication to serving and achieving poverty alleviation plans.
