Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for thorough investigation into alleged Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu’s approval of transfer of N585.18 million grant for vulnerable groups in four States into a private account.
According to the Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris who made this known in a statement released on Sunday said it’s imperative to address the widespread information circulating regarding this use of public funds by the Ministry.
The Minister said the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, is transparent and accountable to the people, and committed to ensuring that public funds are allocated and utilized effectively and efficiently to address the needs of Nigerians.
Idris acknowledged the concerns raised by the public regarding the alleged payment of funds into a private account by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
He said, “We are aware of the narratives circulating widely and wish to assure Nigerians that the Government takes these issues most seriously”.
The Minister added that the government is determined to unravel the truth as it relates to this matter, and assures that appropriate action will be taken to ensure that breaches and infractions are identified and decisively punished, in line with the Administration’s commitment to public accountability and due process.
“The public is advised to note, against the backdrop of various unverified narratives circulating on the Internet, that the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, under the leadership of Mohammed Idris, is primary source for verified information about events and actions of the Federal Govt of Nigeria.
“Only accurate details will be shared with the public. The Ministry is committed to providing timely updates to keep Nigerians informed about the progress of the investigation.
He said the Federal Government urge Nigerians to exercise patience as the investigation unfolds. “The government is focused on ensuring a fair and unbiased process, and findings will be communicated duly and transparently to the public”.
The embattled Minister came under heavy criticism on Friday after a memo surfaced where she directed the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, the fund to a private account owned by Oniyelu Bridget, who the ministry claimed currently serves as the Project Accountant, Grants for Vulnerable Groups.
