EFCC maintains silence as Betta Edu reportedly returns

Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has reportedly resumed her duties despite being under suspension and investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

She was suspended due to allegations of diverting a federal government grant of N585 million intended for the vulnerable into private accounts. Despite this controversy, Edu recently extended condolences to the victims of the tragic Jos building collapse, indicating her active involvement in ministerial responsibilities.

“It is with profound grief that I extend my deepest condolences on the tragic collapse of the school building in Jos, Plateau State, which has resulted in the loss of multiple lives and left many survivors grappling with unimaginable pain and suffering,” Edu said in a message carrying the ministry’s letterhead.

“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may the injured receive swift and complete healing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and all those affected during this incredibly difficult time,” she added.

The condolences, which ought to be met with sympathy, caused a stir on social media as the minister was still expected to be grilled by the anti-graft agency.

President Bola Tinubu had suspended the humanitarian minister in January this year, ordering the EFCC to carry out a thorough investigation of all aspects of the financial transactions involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as one or more agencies.

“In line with his avowed commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of the commonwealth of Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu suspends the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, from office with immediate effect,” Ajuri Ngelale, the special adviser to the president on media and publicity had announced.

However, it appears Edu had been left off the hook as the EFCC has remained silent with no outcome of the investigation in sight.