Top-Notch Scandal Unveiled: Tinubu Suspends Minister Amid Allegations of Financial Impropriety
In a shocking twist to the ongoing scandal involving the alleged fake N3 billion social register contract by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has vehemently denied any personal benefit from the controversial sum of N438.1 million. The scandal, which has ensnared top officials, continues to unravel with President Bola Tinubu taking decisive action on Monday.
Despite Tunji-Ojo’s denial, documents indicate that he resigned as a director from New Planet Project Limited, the company allegedly associated with the funds, almost five years ago. Contrary to earlier reports, Tunji-Ojo distanced himself from benefiting from the social register contract.
President Tinubu, responding to recommendations from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), promptly suspended Dr. Betta Edu, the former head of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Edu faces allegations of financial impropriety, contributing to the widening scandal that has gripped the nation.
The EFCC detained Edu’s predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, on Monday over an alleged N37.1 billion fraud during her tenure as minister. President Tinubu’s suspension of Edu aligns with his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability in managing the nation’s wealth.
In a statement by Tinubu’s media adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, the president directed the EFCC chairman to conduct a thorough investigation into all financial transactions involving Edu’s ministry and its agencies. Tinubu also assigned Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, to lead an investigative panel tasked with reforming the financial architecture of social investment programs.
While these directives took immediate effect, Edu’s attempt to meet with Tinubu at State House, Abuja, proved unsuccessful. Her access was denied, and her security pass was promptly withdrawn by State House security.
Contrary to earlier reports linking Tunji-Ojo to the alleged fake contract, documents reveal that he resigned as a director from New Planet Project Limited in 2019. The company, registered in 2009, underwent a change in directorship, and Tunji-Ojo distanced himself from the recent controversy.
As the scandal unfolds, Edu faces additional challenges, with the EFCC inviting her to answer questions regarding an alleged attempt to move N585 million to a private account. The suspension and ongoing investigations highlight President Tinubu’s commitment to fighting corruption in the country.
In a show of solidarity, Governor Hope Uzodimma and Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume, praised Tinubu’s actions, describing Edu’s suspension as a step toward eradicating corruption. Edu is expected to appear before the EFCC on Tuesday as the investigation intensifies.