THE communications office of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) has vehemently distanced itself from any claims connecting the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Betta Edu, to alleged financial impropriety or any wrongdoing within the agency.
This is against the backdrop of recent online media reports inaccurately linking the minister to the ongoing investigations involving the alleged removal of funds by Hajiya Halima Shehu, the sacked National Coordinator and CEO of NSIPA.
In a statement it issued at the weekend, the NSIPA communication office, headed by Honourable Jamaludeen Kabir, said the reports were borne out of a plot to blackmail the minister for exposing the N44.8bn fraud in NSIPA, noting that there is a distinction between the agency and the suspended National Coordinator/CEO, and that the actions of the former do not reflect the agency’s practices or principles.
It added that the agency is actively cooperating and working under the guidance of the acting National Coordinator and CEO, Dr Akindele Egbuwalo, demonstrating full support and collaboration within the agency.
“The integrity and commitment of NSIPA to serving vulnerable communities in Nigeria remain steadfast. The agency operates with strict adherence to due process and prudent financial management in line with the regulations outlined in our establishment act and directives of the Federal Executive Council.
“It is paramount to ensure the dissemination of accurate information and avoid spreading baseless allegations that could unfairly tarnish the reputation of individuals or institutions. NSIPA urges the public and media outlets to verify facts before making assertions and refrain from associating the minister with the ongoing investigations, as she holds no responsibility for the current circumstances at NSIPA.
“The agency remains steadfast in its dedication to implementing impactful and transparent social intervention programs aimed at uplifting vulnerable Nigerians and furthering the nation’s socio-economic development, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda,” the communication office stated.
Meanwhile, a member of the Federal House of Representatives, representing Ideato North/South federal constituency, Honourable Ikenga Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu, has commended the refusal of the minister to compromise on her principles, which he claimed has helped in exposing the alleged N44 billion fraud at the agency.
Ugochinyere, in a statement, hailed the anti-graft agency’s ongoing efforts to ensure that the culprits were caught, tasking the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to ensure that those found guilty are prosecuted.
The federal lawmaker further commended the minister for leading reforms in the ministry within a short period.
He refuted the allegations of her involvement in the alleged N3 billion NSIPA fraud, saying it was even her stance not to compromise on her principles that helped in exposing the alleged N44 billion fraud at the agency.
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