In a dramatic turn of events, Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, faced denial of access to President Bola Tinubu at the State House on Monday.
Despite passing security checks, Edu was allegedly prevented from entering the president’s office and subsequently escorted out of the presidential villa. Her access tag was reportedly withdrawn by the president’s security team.
Edu has been under scrutiny following demands for her dismissal, triggered by a leaked memo revealing her directive to transfer N585 million to a private account.
Further controversy arose as she approved funds for flight tickets and airport taxis for ministry staff traveling to Kogi, a state without an airport.
Announcing the suspension, President Tinubu’s spokesperson, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, stated that Tinubu has instructed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into all financial transactions involving Edu’s ministry.
The President cited a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of Nigeria’s wealth. Edu has been summoned by the anti-graft agency to appear for questioning at its headquarters.