President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that a “thorough and comprehensive investigation” be conducted into allegations that the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, did order the payment of N585 million into a private account.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, revealed this in a press statement he issued on Sunday, assuring that the investigation would “ascertain the accuracy and validity of the reported details.”
He said: “The government is determined to unravel the truth as it relates to this matter, and assures that appropriate action will be taken to ensure that any breaches and infractions are identified and decisively punished, in line with the Administration’s commitment to public accountability and due process.”
Idris said his ministry acknowledges the concerns raised by the public regarding the alleged payment of funds into a private account by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
“We are aware of the narratives circulating widely and wish to assure Nigerians that the Government takes these issues most seriously.
“The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is transparent and accountable to the people, and committed to ensuring that public funds are allocated and utilized effectively and efficiently to address the needs of Nigerians.”
The minister advised the public to note, against the backdrop of various unverified narratives circulating on the Internet, that the Ministry of Information and National Orientation is the primary source for verified information about events and actions of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
“Only accurate details will be shared with the public. The Ministry is committed to providing timely updates to keep Nigerians informed about the progress of the investigation.
“We urge Nigerians to exercise patience as the investigation unfolds. The government is focused on ensuring a fair and unbiased process, and the findings will be communicated duly and transparently to the public.”
