Humanitarian Affairs Probe: EFCC Recovers New $445,000, N3bn

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made strides in its investigation into Humanitarian Affairs, as it recovers a substantial sum of money.

According to EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale, the commission has retrieved $445,000 and N3 billion between March and April, alongside the earlier recovery of N30 billion. Oyewale stated, “The commission has been able to recover an extra N2.7 billion and $445,000 in connection with the probe.”

This investigation was initiated following a directive from President Bola Tinubu after the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Beta Edu. The EFCC is also looking into the activities of Edu’s predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, and the Coordinator of the National Social Insurance Programmes Agency, Halima Shehu.

In a statement titled “Beta Edu and other Matters: For Clarity,” Oyewale emphasized that no officials from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs have been cleared in the ongoing investigations. The EFCC has uncovered fraudulent dealings related to COVID-19 funds, World Bank loans, and the Abacha loot.

Furthermore, banks involved in these fraudulent activities are also under scrutiny, with managing directors providing useful statements to aid the investigation.

READ ALSO: N585m Scandal: Humanitarian Affairs Ministry Perm Sec Assumes Control Following Betta Edu’s Suspension

The EFCC is ramping up efforts against naira abuse, especially after the recent conviction of controversial cross-dresser, Idri Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, who was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Lagos. The EFCC expressed appreciation for public support in reporting instances of naira abuse and dollarization of the economy, highlighting increased awareness of the issue.

With a new task force operational since February 7, 2024, the EFCC is determined to prosecute those involved in naira abuse. Several celebrities are currently under investigation, with some providing statements and more likely to be invited for questioning. The EFCC maintains its no-sacred-cow approach and warns the public to comply with laws against this crime.