Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has confirmed that Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, has been officially dismissed from her ministerial role following a recent cabinet reshuffle by President Bola Tinubu.
Onanuga disclosed this information during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
The announcement puts an end to months of speculation regarding Edu’s possible reinstatement. According to The Nation, Edu was initially suspended over allegations of involvement in a N585 million scandal within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
Following this, President Tinubu directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into all financial activities within the Ministry and its associated agencies. The aim of the investigation is to uncover any irregularities or misconduct in financial transactions.
Commenting on Edu’s permanent removal, Onanuga noted, “There is already another representative from Cross River in the cabinet. Betta Edu’s role has been taken by Nentawe from Plateau, who will now assume her responsibilities. For this administration, she no longer has a place in the cabinet.”
He also suggested that the EFCC might have submitted findings that supported the President’s decision, stating, “The EFCC has not made its findings public, but considering the President’s decision, it is possible the commission submitted something that justified the action taken against Edu.”
