ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confiscated the passports of the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, and her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, as part of the ongoing probe into alleged scandals within the ministry.
Edu, who faced questioning at the EFCC headquarters on Tuesday regarding a N44 billion fraud in the ministry, had her personal and official passports seized. This move aims to prevent her from leaving the country during the investigation.
The scandal unfolded after a leaked memo revealed Edu’s involvement in directing a substantial payment to a private account. The suspended minister defended the transaction, stating it was meant for vulnerable groups in specific states.
The EFCC’s investigation also extended to managing directors of three commercial banks, who were questioned about their involvement in the fraud.
Edu’s predecessor, Umar-Farouq, faced a 12-hour interrogation on Monday, leading to the confiscation of her passport as part of her bail conditions.
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The passports of both ministers were seized to ensure they remain available for further questioning. The EFCC is determined to prevent any attempt to flee the country while the investigation is ongoing.
In response to the unfolding scandals, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the APC, accusing them of exploiting the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and poverty alleviation for personal gain.
While commending the suspension of Minister Edu, Atiku called for a thorough investigation into others allegedly involved in financial misappropriation.
The APC, in response, cautioned Atiku against premature conclusions, emphasizing the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. The party highlighted President Tinubu’s swift response to the allegations, asserting a commitment to thorough investigations.
In a related development, the PDP called for the suspension and investigation of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, over his alleged involvement in a contract awarded by Edu.
Tunji-Ojo denied the allegations and clarified that his visit to the Presidential Villa was for a scheduled meeting with President Tinubu.
Former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau commended President Tinubu for suspending Minister Betta Edu, acknowledging the decisive action in response to the unfolding scandal.