The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has extended an invitation to the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, for questioning concerning alleged fraud. The invitation comes in light of her suspension by President Bola Tinubu over a contentious payment of N585.189 million to a private bank account.
Betta Edu, a native of Abi Local Government Area in Cross River State, boasts an academic background with a medical degree from the University of Calabar. Her career trajectory led her to serve as the National Chairman of the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum and assume the position of Cross River State Commissioner for Health before her resignation in 2022. Additionally, she held roles as the Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
A source within the EFCC disclosed to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the financial crimes commission has officially summoned the suspended minister. The agency expects Edu to attend its headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday for further interrogation.
The suspension from office by President Tinubu swiftly followed the controversy surrounding the significant payment to the private account, prompting the EFCC’s recommendation for her suspension to facilitate a comprehensive investigation.
The source emphasised that the commission’s invitation was expedited soon after President Tinubu announced the suspension, providing Edu with less than 30 minutes before receiving the summons. This move is aimed at enabling the EFCC to conduct a thorough inquiry, aligning with the President’s directive to scrutinise the ministry’s activities.
The EFCC seeks Edu’s cooperation to provide insights into the matter, ensuring a meticulous examination of the circumstances surrounding the alleged fraudulent transaction.
