Human Rights Lawyer, Femi Falana, issued a strong rebuke to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Betta Edu, urging her to refrain from insulting Nigerians amidst allegations of a N585 million fraud. The minister faced intense criticism after a leaked memo revealed her directive to transfer the said amount to a private account owned by Oniyelu Bridget, purportedly the Project Accountant for Grants for Vulnerable Groups, according to the ministry’s claim.
In response to the allegations, Minister Edu dismissed them as baseless fabrications orchestrated by her detractors, framing it as an attempt to hinder her anti-corruption initiatives and efforts to uplift the less privileged. However, Femi Falana, in a statement on Sunday, pointed out that the minister had not denied approving the substantial payment, which contravenes existing Public Service Rules, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Act, and the Penal Code applicable in the Federal Capital Territory.
Falana emphasized that rather than apologizing for the apparent breach of regulations and betraying the trust placed in her, Minister Edu arrogantly dismissed the allegations as mere falsehoods and attempts by mischief makers to undermine her ministry’s corruption-fighting and welfare-enhancing initiatives.
Furthermore, Falana acknowledged the efforts of the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, in preventing the criminal diversion of the funds from the public treasury. However, he asserted that the leaked memorandum clearly indicates an offense—an attempted felony—had already been committed, despite the prevention of the actual diversion. Falana’s statement highlights the importance of accountability and adherence to legal and ethical standards in public office, calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.
