A coalition of civil society organizations against corruption has expressed concern over reports that President Bola Tinubu may reinstate Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
The group warns that such a move would undermine the administration’s anti-corruption efforts.
In a statement, the group’s convener, Malam Bashir Abdulganiu, called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to disclose the outcome of investigations into Edu’s alleged corrupt practices.
The group also seeks updates on high-profile cases, including that of former Kogi State Governor, Alh Yahaya Bello.
The statement made available on Sunday said, “With the EFCC pointing accusing fingers at some Nigerians under investigation for its current predicament, it is imperative to ask what exactly became of her investigation and how it fits into the present puzzle.
“Could she and other persons under the EFCC radar be staging a subtle attack on the Commission in a bid to discredit it and save face?
“As Nigerians, we need to know what’s happening because the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has the potential to eradicate the suffering and hardships Nigerian citizens are currently passing through. It will be a big blow on the credibility of this administration if Nigerians are perpetually kept in the dark over sensitive issues like this.
“It is even worrisome that we have been inundated with rumours to the effect that Dr. Betta Edu is already telling her close allies that she has a close relationship with the President and as such, there’s no cause for alarm. If she is reinstated then it means her claim is right and Mr. President is making a caricature of the fight against corruption.
“Betta Edu and her likes do not deserve to be reconsidered for any political appointment even at the ward levels not to talk of state or federal, the president has the duty to prove to the entire world that; he is against corruption at any rate and since distance his administration from people like her and her co-travellers.”
