Femi Falana Calls for Swift Action as Minister Faces Allegations of N585 Million Fraud
Human Rights Lawyer, Femi Falana, has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Betta Edu, following allegations of a N585 million fraud. Falana, in a statement on Sunday, urged Minister Edu to refrain from insulting Nigerians and demanded a proper investigation into the matter.
The embattled minister faced severe criticism after a leaked memo revealed her directive to transfer N585 million to a private account owned by Oniyelu Bridget, purportedly the Project Accountant for Grants for Vulnerable Groups. The memo, dated December 20, 2023, ignited public outrage and raised questions about the proper utilization of funds intended for vulnerable populations in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Lagos, and Ogun States.
While Minister Edu dismissed the allegations as baseless and a ploy to undermine her anti-corruption efforts, Falana pointed out that she had not denied approving the payment, which, according to him, violated established rules and laws governing public service.
Falana emphasized that the leaked memo indicated an attempt to commit a felony, even though the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, reportedly thwarted the actual diversion of funds. The Human Rights Lawyer commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for recovering N37 billion intended for vulnerable groups and called for an expedited investigation into the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
In his statement, Falana urged the EFCC to swiftly charge any individuals implicated in the alleged fraud before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory. As the controversy unfolds, public attention remains focused on the unfolding investigation and the need for transparency and accountability in handling funds designated for the vulnerable population.
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