By Joseph Edegbo
ActionAid Nigeria says its stance against corruption or any form of financial mismanagement remains resolute and therefore calls for a forensic audits of some MDAs including CBN, NNPC and Ministry of Finance.
It gives kudos to President Bola Tinubu for ordering investigation into alleged financial iiregulatires within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and the immediate suspension of Dr. Betta Edu
,ActionAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, at a press briefing in Abuja stated that the Organization is closely monitoring the ongoing investigation and if proven true, these allegations would signify a severe violation of public trust and a betrayal of the essence of humanitarian efforts.
“ActionAid Nigeria underscores the importance of due process, and while we also acknowledge the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty, we commend the President’s decision to suspend Dr. Edu pending the conclusion of the investigation.
“This step prevents potential interference and upholds the integrity of the process. It is crucial for the legal process to be diligently followed, ensuring individuals found guilty of financial misconduct face the full consequences of the law.”
Andrew Mamedu also highlighted the need for a comprehensive investigation beyond a single ministry, stating that, ‘’Corruption, as evident in the deeply rooted issues in CBN and NNPC, demands a broader inquiry across all government sectors.
“The investigation must be expanded to include the NNPC, CBN, and the Ministry of Finance.
“President Bola Tinubu should demonstrate commitment to anti-corruption by initiating forensic audits across these MDAs, ensuring systemic accountability, and making information accessible to Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).’’ Mamedu emphasised that now is the time for the implementation of citizen-led reforms and the effective establishment of a social register of beneficiaries with real-time updates as funds are disbursed.
“This will ensure transparency and enable public monitoring of resource allocation”.
The Country Director expressed ActionAid’s willingness to collaborate with the government on a citizen-led process as evident in ActionAid’s past involvement and track record in leading and coordinating citizen pro-poor initiatives and social welfare programmes that align with the needs and priorities of the people.