By: AUSTINE AGBO EMMANUEL, Kaduna
A coalition of 28 civil society organizations in the Niger Delta region has given President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a 7-day ultimatum to react to the use of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation’s letterhead by suspended Minister, Betta Edu, or face nationwide protests.
The group, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Comrade Emmanuel Gabriel Abela, described Edu’s actions as, “a clear disregard for the rule of law and an attempt to undermine the investigation process.”
Edu, who is currently under investigation for fraudulent activities, has continued to use the Ministry’s official letterhead to issue statements, including a recent one felicitating Nigerians on World Humanitarian Day. This move has sparked widespread outrage, with many accusing her of trying to legitimize her position despite being suspended.
The coalition accused the government of failing to take decisive action against Edu, despite her suspension, and vowed to take action if the government fails to address the matter within the stipulated timeframe.
“We will mobilize Nigerians across the country to protest this abuse of power,” Abela said. “We will not allow individuals under investigation to continue to undermine the rule of law. The government must take immediate action to stop Edu’s use of the Ministry’s letterhead and ensure that she faces the full weight of the law.”
This is not the first time Edu has faced criticism for using the Ministry’s letterhead. Northern statesman Shehu Mahdi had previously accused the presidency of reinstating Edu through the “wide open front door of the Villa” after she used the letterhead to condole with the people of Jos.
The group’s ultimatum to President Tinubu is seen as a test of his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The president has promised to tackle corruption and ensure that those who abuse their positions face justice. However, the continued use of the Ministry’s letterhead by Edu has raised questions about the government’s willingness to take action against those who break the law.
“We are watching to see if the government will take action against Edu,” Abela said. “If they fail to do so, we will take to the streets to demand justice. We will not allow the government to sweep this matter under the carpet.”
