Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, took to his official X account on Wednesday to express his views on the recent suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu.
Obi not only welcomed the suspension but also called for a thorough investigation, urging authorities to ensure that everyone involved in the alleged corrupt activities faces consequences.
Expressing his concern, Obi pointed out the alarming timing of the fraud allegations, coinciding with the ongoing investigation of the minister’s predecessor for a massive N37 billion fraud.
In a tweet, he emphasized the need for accountability in government and the judicious use of public funds.
“I like to add my voice with most Nigerians concerned about accountability in government and judicious use of public funds,” Obi stated. “I welcome the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Ms. Betta Edu, and subsequent directives for her investigation. While the action of the government is a welcome development, the investigation must be comprehensive so that all those culpable are brought to book.”
Obi stressed that the suspension should not be a mere cosmetic measure but a catalyst for holding all those responsible accountable. He drew attention to the unfortunate coincidence of alleged fraudulent activities involving N585 million by Edu, occurring simultaneously with the investigation of the previous minister for a staggering N37 billion misappropriation.
“The Ministry may have been created by the system as a conduit pipe to siphon public funds while using the poor as a face,” Obi expressed. “It is not only immoral but also insensitive for those entrusted with funds for public welfare to literally steal from the poor.”
Calling for a broader initiative, Obi urged the administration to use these cases as a launching point for a thorough system-wide investigation into reported cases of fraud and corruption among high-ranking government officials. He echoed the sentiments of concerned Nigerians, urging the government to address public sector corruption with the urgency it deserves to restore public trust.
