The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has fervently urged President Bola Tinubu to scrutinize the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, amidst allegations of his connection to a N438.1 million consultancy contract with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by its president, Pedro Obi, NANS emphasized the imperative need for a comprehensive investigation into Tunji-Ojo’s alleged involvement.
The association’s call for action stems from concerns over the financial irregularities exposed within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, including the suspension of Minister Betta Edu for purportedly funneling N585 million of federal funds into a personal account.
Amidst allegations of New Planet Project Limited, a company reportedly owned by Tunji-Ojo, receiving N438.1 million for consultancy services from Edu’s ministry, the Minister has acknowledged his association with the company. However, Tunji-Ojo clarified that he resigned in 2019 when he contested for the House of Representatives, asserting that he is merely a shareholder and not actively engaged in the company’s day-to-day operations.
Despite Tunji-Ojo’s denial, NANS remains steadfast in its demand for an investigation, stating, “We call on the President to order an extensive investigation into how every penny was spent under the supervision of the suspended Minister, Betta-Edu. And, it must not stop at that, the President must ensure that everyone found wanting is prosecuted in accordance with the law of the land.”
This latest call for accountability adds fuel to the already blazing controversy surrounding financial mismanagement within Nigerian ministries, compelling President Tinubu to address the issue head-on and ensure transparency and justice prevail.
