FROM RAHILA ABDULLAHI, KADUNA
Coalition of 28 civil society organisations in the Niger Delta region has given President Bola Tinubu a seven-day ultimatum to react to the use of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation’s letterhead by the suspended minister, Betta Edu, or face nationwide protest.
The group, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Comrade Emmanuel Abela, described Edu’s action as a clear disregard for the rule of law and attempt to undermine investigation.
The group alleged that Edu, who is currently under investigation for fraudulent activities, had continued to use the ministry’s official letterhead to issue statements, including a recent one felicitation Nigerians on World Humanitarian Day.
The suspended minister’s action has sparked widespread outrage, with many accusing her of trying to legitimise her position despite being on suspension.
The coalition accused government of failing to take decisive action against Edu and vowed to take action if it did not address the matter within the stipulated timeframe.
“We will mobilise Nigerians to protest this abuse of power. We will not allow individuals under investigation to continue to undermine the rule of law. 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,” Abela said.
This is not the first time that 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 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
