The Nigerian government has ordered a thorough investigation into the alleged diversion of N585.2m into a private account by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu.
The President’s statement was conveyed on Saturday, January 6, 2024, through the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation of Nigeria, Mohammed Idris.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) raised concerns on Sunday, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to instruct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and anti-corruption agencies to investigate the alleged payment of N585.2m.
The money was meant for distribution to vulnerable people in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Lagos, and Ogun State but was reportedly paid into a private account.
In a letter dated January 6, 2024, and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization stated that “Paying public funds into private accounts may create the perception or appearance of impropriety and give cover to any potential wrongdoing or diversion.
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Mr Idris assured that Mr Tinubu’s government was determined to uncover the truth regarding the allegation, and action would be taken to ensure that “any breaches and infractions are identified and decisively punished.”
“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 Minister Mohammed Idris, is the primary source for verified information about events and actions of the Federal Government of Nigeria.”
The government urged Nigerians to exercise patience as the investigation unfolds.
