Beta Edu: Arewa group issues 7-day ultimatum on investigation

The Coalition of Arewa Civil Society has issued a seven-day ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to publicly release their findings on the alleged misappropriation of funds by the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Dr. Beta Edu. 

A press statement signed by the group’s spokesman, Comrade Mohammed Usman, on Monday, warned that failure to do so will result in widespread protests across the 19 Northern states. CACS expressed strong support for recent comments by human rights activist, Shehu Mahdi, who warned that the alleged reinstatement of Edu would undermine the President’s commitment to morality, decency, accountability, and good governance.

The Coalition, while echoing Mahdi’s concerns, emphasized that Edu’s return to office would be a grave error. It however, decried EFCC’s silence on the issue, while accusing the anti- graft agency of shielding Edu from accountability, noting that it is unacceptable for the suspended Minister to continue using the Ministry’s letterhead for public functions, while other public figures, such as the former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, face trial.

The group called for Edu to be barred from holding any public office in Nigeria, citing the disgrace she has brought upon the nation. It equally urged the President and EFCC to act swiftly, warning that if their demands are not met within the specified timeframe, the Coalition will mobilize protests.

“We are deeply concerned about the situation surrounding the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry. This Ministry plays a crucial role in alleviating the suffering of our citizens, and the allegations of corruption under Edu’s leadership must be addressed transparently.”