Breaking News: Tinubu Suspends Betta Edu Over Alleged N585m Fraud

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has immediately enforced a suspension on the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu. This action was made public in a statement on Monday by the President's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale.

A confidential document signed by Dr. Edu requesting the transfer of funds to a personal account belonging to Bridget Mojisola Oniyelu had earlier been circulating on social media. The leaked document confirmed the transaction was made to Ms. Oniyelu's account. However, the minister maintains the payment was made following due process and asserts the accusations are unfounded.

President Tinubu has ordered a strict investigation into the matter, emphasizing that any violations will be dealt with firmly, as said by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris on Sunday.

Tinubu justified the suspension on Monday saying that the measure aligns with his commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in managing the nation's resources.

The President has instructed the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to carry out a comprehensive investigation into all transactions involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

Dr. Edu has been directed to cede her duties to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal ministry and has been asked by the President to cooperate fully with the investigating authorities during the investigation.

A panel headed by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance has also been assigned by the President to evaluate and possibly restructure the financial infrastructure of social investment programs. This is to eliminate institutional weaknesses and regain public trust in these initiatives.

These directives by the President are effective immediately.