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Tinubu Directs Full Investigation into N2tn Poverty Relief Funds, Edu Faces EFCC Inquiry Today
President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the financial dealings of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The directive came in a statement issued on Monday by Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, announcing the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, in connection with the N585 million scandal within the ministry.
Titled ‘President Tinubu Suspends Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation from Office,’ the statement revealed Edu’s suspension concurrent with the ongoing EFCC probe of her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, over the alleged N37.1 billion money laundering during her tenure.
According to Budget Office data, the ministry, previously known as Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, had a budget of N2.38tn from 2020 to 2024. In response to Tinubu’s directive, the EFCC has summoned Edu to appear before its investigators on the matter.
Ngelale stated that the President has mandated the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, to conduct a thorough investigation into the financial transactions of the ministry and its associated agencies. Additionally, a panel led by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive diagnostic of the social investment programs’ financial architecture and framework.
Edu’s Suspension and Financial Scandal
President Tinubu suspended Edu with immediate effect, instructing her to hand over to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The President also emphasized Edu’s full cooperation with investigating authorities during the inquiry.
The scandal involving Edu surfaced after a leaked memo revealed her directive to transfer N585 million to a private account owned by Oniyelu Bridget, the ministry’s claimed Project Accountant for Grants for Vulnerable Groups. Edu asserted that the payment was intended for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states, while critics raised concerns about the legality of such transactions.
Public Pressure and EFCC Inquiry
Following public outcry and demands from various groups, including the Peoples Democratic Party, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, Femi Falana, SAN, and others, President Tinubu suspended Edu and ordered the comprehensive investigation. Edu has been directed to report to the EFCC headquarters on Tuesday for questioning.
In a notable turn of events, Edu’s attempt to meet with Tinubu post-suspension was denied by security personnel at the Presidential Villa. The incident was captured by TVC News, showing Edu’s convoy being turned away.
Budgetary Allocation and Background
The total budgetary allocation to the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation from 2020 to 2024 is N2.38tn, as per data from the budget office. The ministry was created by former President Buhari in August 2019 and renamed the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation under President Tinubu’s administration.
Figures from the budget office indicate varying allocations to the ministry and its agencies each year, with the highest allocation in 2024 being N532.5bn. The ongoing investigation aims to reform the financial architecture of social investment programs for the benefit of disadvantaged households and restore public confidence in the initiative.
News
RUN Set to Mobilize Millions of Youth for Tinubu/Akpabio Ahead of 2027
Following the conclusion of party primaries, Rising Up for a United Nigeria (RUN) as a civil society group championing the cause of all youths and middle age citizens has congratulated His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his landslide victory in the presidential primaries recently held.
RUN also congratulated Senator Godswill Akpabio for emerging unopposed and the wild jubilation that greeted his victory as the Senator representing his constituency, the good people of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large.
In a press release signed by Amb. Solomon Adodo and made available to journalists, a copy of which was sighted by our correspondent, the group described the win of the duo as beam of hope for Nigeria beyond 2027.
According to him, “the win of Asiwaju and Akpabio signals a beam of hope for Nigeria that beyond 2027, we shall be consolidating on the gains of synergetic partnership between the legislature and the executive as a precursor for rapid development.
“The support extended to Mr. President by the Senate President has yielded significant strides in fasttracking development across all parameters that affect national productivity”
The group therefore called on all Nigerians to come out in their numbers to support the president while outlining series programs with potentials to foster national unity across regional and religious lines.
“As a group representing the interests of Nigeria youths, we are determined to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President towards improving the skill set of Nigeria youths towards increased productivity and an end to unemployment”, the release stated.
The group expressed confidence in the possibility of a new Nigeria of our dreams with the victories of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Godswill Akpabio who will definitely be handed a second term as the Senate President “to continue synergizing with Mr. President for a better Nigeria”.
News
HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI
The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
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