Northern group threatens Tinubu over alleged plot to reinstate Betta Edu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been urged to resist pressures to reinstate the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu suspended over alleged wrongdoings.

The Arewa Awareness on Good Governance behind the call warned against the recall of Edu since it would undermine Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts and erode public trust in the President Tinubu-led administration.

The group position was in response to the call For Betta Edu’s reinstatement purportedly emanating from Hon Cecelia Ogbeche Odok, senior legislative aide (SLA) To Speaker House of Representatives.

Led by Malam Grema Ibrahim Musa, the group in a statement described such a call as tantamount to placing Betta Edu as above the law since she is yet to be cleared of the allegation of wrongdoings leveled against her.

“The allegations against her warrant thorough investigation, and her suspension prevents potential interference or obstruction. Ignoring these allegations would,” the group argued.

“Hon. Ogbeche Odok’s emotional appeal overlooks the gravity of the allegations and undermines the President’s efforts to combat corruption. We must prioritize accountability, transparency, and institutional integrity. The Minister’s suspension is not a political vendetta but a necessary measure to ensure justice and protect Nigeria’s resources.

“The question that every Nigerian must ask at this critical time is, if Ms Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Program Agency could not be recalled, over alleged financial malfeasance, why then must Edu be reinstated?

“The suspension is a necessary step towards investigating the allegations against Dr. Edu. Allowing due process to unfold is crucial, ensuring accountability and transparency in governance.

“This decision demonstrates President Tinubu’s commitment to combating corruption and upholding the rule of law.”

The group thereby threatened that they would also be left with no option but to stage nationwide protests, picketing the various government agencies in the Northern part of the country in the event the President succumb to the pressure to reinstate Betta Edu as Minister.