The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) appears to be turning up the heat on its investigations into alleged financial improprieties at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development. In a strongly-worded statement, the anti-graft agency slammed the suspended Humanitarian Minister Betta Edu, her predecessor Sadiya Umar-Farouq, and the Coordinator of the National Social Insurance Programmes Agency Halima Shehu amid revelations that a staggering N32.7 billion and $445,000 have been recovered so far from the ministry.
The EFCC spokesperson made it clear that the commission’s investigations are not about individuals but rather focused on uncovering “a system and intricate web of fraudulent practices.” This suggests the alleged corruption may have become institutionalized and deeply entrenched within the ministry over time.
Some key takeaways from the EFCC’s statement:
- Recoveries so far: The eye-popping sums of N32.7bn and $445,000 recovered highlight the sheer scale of the alleged fraud and misappropriation of funds meant for critical humanitarian and social development initiatives.
- Widening probe: In addition to suspected diversion of COVID-19 funds and World Bank loans, the EFCC stated it has uncovered potential misuse of recovered Abacha loot released to the ministry, further broadening the scope of investigations.
- Bankers implicated: In a concerning development, the anti-graft agency revealed that bank managing directors have provided useful statements, indicating potential collusion or failure of oversight by financial institutions.
- Wider crackdown: The EFCC warned it will not relent in its “no-sacred-cow” approach, suggesting high-profile individuals could face prosecutions. It also stated it is investigating celebrirites for alleged naira abuse and currency racketeering.
While the former and current ministry officials slammed have not been formally charged yet, the EFCC’s hardline statements suggest serious allegations of large-scale fraud and financial crimes. The commission urged Nigerians to have patience as its professionals follow an intricate trail of evidence involving over 50 bank accounts.
As the Tinubu administration doubles down on its anti-corruption agenda, the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry probe will be a litmus test of the government’s seriousness and the EFCC’s capabilities to thoroughly investigate high-level graft without fears or favors. Nigerians await further updates and potential prosecutions in a case that has sparked national outrage over the alleged betrayal of public trust and misuse of funds meant for the most vulnerable sections of society.
Reference
EFCC slams Edu, Farouq, Shehu, says N32.7bn, $445,000 recovered from humanitarian ministry Published in Punch.