The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced the recovery of a sum of N32 billion from its probe into the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
This development comes amidst allegations of financial misappropriation and fraud involving high-ranking officials within the ministry.
The EFCC’s investigation, which initially focused on the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, has expanded to encompass a broader examination of financial transactions and practices within the ministry.
The probe was initiated following allegations of the unauthorized approval of N650 million payment into a private account linked to Edu.
President Bola Tinubu’s directive to investigate the allegations and the subsequent suspension of Edu from office underscore the seriousness of the matter. While Edu has denied any wrongdoing, the EFCC proceeded with its inquiry, leading to her detention and subsequent release on bail.
The agency’s investigation also extends to Edu’s predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, and the National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme (NSIPA), Halima Shehu.
Allegations of financial impropriety totaling N37.1 billion and the movement of N44 billion from NSIPA accounts to suspicious private and corporate accounts have prompted scrutiny of their roles in the ministry.
In a statement released over the weekend, the EFCC disclosed that its investigations into the alleged fraud have yielded significant results, with the recovery of N32 billion and $445,000 thus far.
This substantial sum reflects the scale of financial irregularities uncovered during the course of the probe.
The EFCC emphasized that its investigation is not limited to individual officials but extends to a systemic examination of fraudulent practices within the ministry.
The agency highlighted the involvement of banks in facilitating the alleged fraud, with managing directors providing valuable information to investigators.
Dele Oyewale, the spokesperson for the EFCC, reiterated the agency’s commitment to thorough investigations and prosecution of individuals found culpable.
He emphasized that no one implicated in the fraud has been cleared, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the wrongdoing.
Beyond its efforts to combat corruption within government institutions, the EFCC is also intensifying its campaign against the abuse of the national currency and the dollarization of the economy.
The agency acknowledged the public’s support and involvement in reporting instances of currency abuse, signaling a growing awareness of the importance of preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system.
As the EFCC continues its probe into the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, the recovery of N32 billion underscores the magnitude of financial misconduct within the government.
With investigations ongoing and prosecutions imminent, the EFCC remains steadfast in its mission to uphold transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s public sector.
