Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has called for the resignation of Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, in the wake of allegations of financial irregularities.
Falana’s statement, issued on Sunday, emphasized Edu’s alleged betrayal of confidence and urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to expedite the ongoing investigation of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), criticized what he termed an “extremely embarrassing drama” surrounding Edu’s involvement in approving N585,198,500.00 to be disbursed into a personal account.
In a letter allegedly signed by Edu, instructions were given to transfer the sum to Oniyelu Bridget’s account as a grant for vulnerable groups in four states.
However, the Accountant General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, clarified that her office received the request but did not act on it.
Edu, the minister at the center of the controversy, countered the allegations, citing plans to tarnish her image and a commitment to avoid embezzling government funds.
Falana, in response, criticized Edu for not denying approval for funds to be paid to a private account instead of directly transferring them to beneficiaries’ accounts.
Falana highlighted the legal implications, stating that despite the Accountant General’s prevention of criminal diversion, the attempt to commit a felony had been completed.
He underscored the lack of legal justification for diverting the sum meant for vulnerable people in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Lagos, and Ogun States.
The lawyer’s overall stance emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, calling for Edu’s resignation and swift action in the ongoing investigation into the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
