The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly seized the passports of the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, and her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq. The move is part of the ongoing investigations into financial scandals within the ministry.
According to a reliable source within the EFCC, the passports were confiscated to prevent the two former ministers from leaving the country during the course of the investigation. The commission is keen on ensuring that both individuals remain available to answer questions related to the alleged financial corruption in the Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation Ministry.
Betta Edu arrived at the EFCC headquarters on Tuesday morning to respond to inquiries regarding the leaked memo that exposed her request for the payment of N585 million, intended for vulnerable individuals, into a private account belonging to Oniyelu Bridget Mojisola. This revelation led to public outcry, prompting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order a comprehensive probe into Edu’s actions and an investigation into the ministry’s activities.
Sadiya Umar-Farouq, the former Minister, is also under investigation for alleged fraud amounting to over N40 billion during her tenure. The EFCC has summoned the Chief Executive Officers of Zenith, Providus, and Jaiz banks in connection with the ongoing investigation. Halima Shehu, the suspended CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, is also part of the probe.
The EFCC’s actions are seen as a significant step in holding public officials accountable and ensuring transparency in government activities.
