CSO Urges President Bola Tinubu to Publicize Dr Betta Edu’s Probe Report

Abuja, Nigeria – The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI), a civil society organization (CSO), has called on President Bola Tinubu to make public the report of the investigation into the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu. The organization believes transparency in handling corruption allegations is crucial to demonstrate the government’s commitment to tackling corruption.

Earlier this month, President Tinubu suspended Dr. Betta Edu following the emergence of a memo in which she allegedly requested the transfer of N585 million to a private account belonging to Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, the Accountant-General of the Federation.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Niyi Akinsiju, the chair of IMPI, commended the president for his swift response to the corruption allegations. Akinsiju emphasized the importance of publicizing the investigation report, stating that it would send a clear signal to both local and international audiences about the administration’s commitment to addressing corruption.

“While we await the outcome of the ongoing investigation, we urge the President not to succumb to pressure but to ensure that the reports of this investigation and others involving government officials are made public in the spirit of transparency,” Akinsiju stated.

The organization believes that such transparency would align with recent statements made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his visit to Nigeria, acknowledging the government’s efforts in combating corruption.

IMPI also took the opportunity to acknowledge the Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to ensuring food security in the country. Akinsiju highlighted various policies, including an irrigation program and waivers on the importation of tractors and farm implements, as initiatives contributing to the administration’s goal of achieving year-round farming.

The organization expressed optimism that these measures would lead to adequate food supply in the country. Additionally, Akinsiju noted the positive impact of removing subsidies on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), stating that it has contributed to increased revenue for the nation.