Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has stated that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is not investigating her for N30 billion embezzlement.
A bulletin titled, “EFCC Alert,” which was made available on Monday to media organisations including SaharaReporters had alleged the recovery of N30 billion from the public funds said to be looted under the watch of Edu.
The document read, “Update on Betta Edu investigation. We have laws and regulations guiding our investigations. Nigerians will also know that they are already on suspension, and this is based on the investigations we have done, and President Bola Tinubu has proved to Nigerians that he is ready to fight corruption.
“Moreover, concerning this particular case, we have recovered over N30 billion, which is already in the coffers of the Federal Government.”
However, a statement signed by her Special Adviser on Media, Rasheed Olarenwaju and sent to SaharaReporters on Tuesday said the EFCC had issued a statement clarifying the matter to dispel misconceptions and misinformation circulating on social media platforms.
According to the statement, facts have emerged proving that she’s not associated with any scrutiny related to funds transferred to 50 bank accounts.
Olarewaju said the distinction between Edu’s case and another individual, Halima Shehu, who is being investigated for misappropriating N44.8 billion without any official approvals, has been made clear.
He added that Mr. Adamu, an investigator with the EFCC, made the points clear and emphasised the need to separate fact from fiction and to discern the truth amidst what appears to be a concerted effort to discredit Edu through a media campaign of calumny.
According to the statement, the investigator highlighted the misinformation being circulated, particularly referencing outdated news reports from six weeks ago, which do not accurately reflect the current status of the investigation.
The statement read, “In recent developments, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a clarifying statement regarding ongoing investigations involving Betta Edu, shedding light on misconceptions and misinformation circulating on social media platforms.
“Contrary to rumors, Betta Edu, is not under investigation for any alleged misappropriation of 30 billion Naira. Instead, the EFCC has confirmed that the investigation pertains to a significantly amount, specifically 587 million Naira.
“Furthermore, it has been emphasized that Betta Edu is not associated with any scrutiny related to funds transferred to 50 bank accounts. The distinction between her case and another individual, Halima Shehu, who is being investigated for misappropriating 44.8 billion Naira without any official approvals, has been made clear.
“It’s crucial to acknowledge the significance of transparency and accuracy in such matters, especially concerning individuals in public positions. The EFCC clarification serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying information before accepting it as truth, particularly in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly across various social media platforms.
“In summary, the EFCC’s clarification regarding Betta Edu’s case reaffirms the agency’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and maintaining transparency in its operations. It also serves as a reminder to the public to exercise caution when consuming information, especially in the age of digital media where misinformation can easily proliferate.
“As the investigation progresses, it is essential to await further updates from credible sources and to refrain from spreading unverified claims that may tarnish the reputations of individuals unjustly.”