In a surprising turn of events surrounding the alleged N585 million fraud case involving the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, legal expert Barrister Jim Ekpeyong has revealed documents showcasing the minister’s meticulous adherence to due process. The controversy, which initially stirred concerns, is now under scrutiny as Ekpeyong sheds light on the minister’s compliance with established administrative procedures.
According to Ekpeyong, who is well-versed in modern administrative practices, senior officials, including Halima Shehu, responsible for overseeing the process, have seemingly vanished from the controversy. He suggests that this disappearance might be a tactical move, urging President Bola Tinubu to seek further clarification on the matter.
The documents in question reportedly outline Edu’s involvement in a fund transaction request, which was approved and executed into the account of Assistant Director Mrs. Bridget. Ekpeyong emphasizes that the minister’s actions align with existing financial regulations applicable to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Contrary to allegations of financial impropriety, the released documents argue that Edu’s actions were in line with established procedures within the humanitarian ministry. Ekpeyong points out that Mrs. Bridget, unrelated to Dr. Betta, played a crucial role in overseeing financial activities related to the program.
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A source from the ministry defends Mrs. Bridget, stating that the payment request process was well-established and legal, emphasizing that there was no illegality involved. The source suggests that the controversy might be a trap set to tarnish the government’s image, asserting that no money is missing, and the program’s transactions were successful.
The call for Dr. Betta Edu’s resignation is questioned, especially considering her proactive reporting of a missing 44 billion from the NSIPA account, leading to the subsequent recovery of 39.8 billion. The source argues that the minister’s commitment is driven by a desire to serve and achieve President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s poverty-alleviation plans.
In light of these revelations, Ekpeyong insists that Edu has done nothing illegal, attributing the situation to a trap set by individuals wanting to embarrass the government. He calls on President Tinubu to scrutinize the activities of old-guard politicians working against the new breed of appointees in his administration.
Source: Vanguard News
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