LISTEN TO THIS THE AFRICANA VOICE ARTICLE NOW
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Nigeria’s Anti-Corruption Hammer Falls on Poverty Minister
In a swift move against alleged financial impropriety, President Bola Tinubu has suspended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, barely six months into her tenure. The suspension, announced on Monday by presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale, triggers an immediate probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into all transactions under Edu’s ministry.
This dramatic development marks the first ministerial suspension under Tinubu, who was elected last year on pledges to revive Africa’s largest economy and crack down on endemic corruption. The move sends a strong message to Nigerians who have long blamed entrenched graft among government officials for the country’s widespread poverty.
“The President has directed the EFCC to conduct a thorough investigation into all aspects of the financial transactions involving the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation,” Ngelale stated. “This investigation will cover the entire framework of social protection programs designed to support vulnerable Nigerians.”
Edu could not be reached for comment at the time of reporting.
Nigeria, despite its vast oil wealth, has grappled with systemic corruption for decades, eroding public trust and hindering economic development. The suspension of Edu, coupled with the review of social protection programs under Finance Minister Wale Edun, signals Tinubu’s determination to tackle this deeply rooted problem.
“President Tinubu recognizes the importance of regaining public trust and ensuring that resources meant for the poorest Nigerians actually reach them,” Ngelale emphasized. “This investigation is a critical step towards achieving that goal.”
Niger’s Ousted President’s Son Released
Salem Bazoum, son of Niger’s deposed president Mohamed Bazoum, has been released from detention after over five months. This development follows regional mediation efforts, but his parents remain in custody as the military junta holds firm.
Freed on provisional terms, Mr. Bazoum Jr. departed for neighboring Togo. The military tribunal emphasized his responsibility to “respond to justice” when required. He faced charges related to undermining state authority after the July coup.
The junta’s continued detention of Mr. Bazoum Sr. and his wife underscores the delicate political situation in Niger. Despite pressure from ECOWAS, the regional bloc, and international condemnation, the junta has not complied with calls for their release or President Bazoum’s reinstatement.
Mediation efforts involving Togo and Sierra Leone bore fruit in securing Mr. Bazoum Jr.’s release. This outcome stands in contrast to ECOWAS’s court ruling in December, deeming the family’s detention arbitrary and demanding their freedom.
The junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, has charted its own course. Ignoring the regional court’s ruling, it announced a three-year transition to civilian rule, raising concerns about prolonged military control.
Meanwhile, the withdrawal of French troops and ECOWAS-imposed sanctions have impacted Niger’s economy, causing food price hikes and shortages.
LEAVE A COMMENT
You must be logged in to post a comment.