Just In : EFCC Inquiry Update – NSIPA States Betta Edu’s Innocence In Financial Matters
The National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) has officially distanced Minister Betta Edu from the ongoing investigations within the agency. In a statement released on Saturday and signed by Jamaludeen Kabir the National Communications Manager
titled ‘NSIPA Clarification: Setting the Record Straight on Recent Allegations and Affirming Commitment to Transparency,’ the agency clarified its stance on the matter.
Kabir emphasized that reports circulating on social media linking Edu to the ongoing fraud investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving the suspended National Coordinator and CEO, Halima Shehu, are false and should be disregarded.
Under the guidance of the acting National Coordinator and CEO, Dr. Akindele Egbuwalo, the agency expresses full support and collaboration with the ongoing EFCC investigation. The statement asserts that NSIPA vehemently distances itself from any claims connecting the honorable minister to financial impropriety or any wrongdoing within the agency.
The communication office of NSIPA issued the statement in response to inaccurate online media reports linking Dr. Betta Edu to the ongoing investigations concerning alleged fund mismanagement by Hajiya Halima Shehu, the suspended National Coordinator, and CEO of NSIPA.
Importantly, NSIPA underlines the distinction between the suspended National Coordinator/CEO and the agency itself, emphasizing that the actions of the former do not reflect the agency’s practices or principles. The agency reaffirms its integrity and commitment to serving vulnerable communities in Nigeria with strict adherence to due process and prudent financial management, following the regulations outlined in its establishment act and directives of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
The agency urges Nigerians to view such moves as anti-people and requests media outlets to refrain from spreading baseless allegations that could unfairly tarnish the reputation of individuals or institutions. It emphasizes the importance of disseminating accurate information and encourages the public and media to verify facts before making assertions, specifically urging against associating the Honourable Minister with the ongoing investigations, as she holds no responsibility for the current circumstances at NSIPA.
