The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC has invited CEOs of Zenith, Providus, and Jaiz Banks to explain the financial misappropriation charges against Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, and her predecessor, Sadiya Umar-Farouk.
The bank chiefs invited are Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu (Zenith Bank), Haruna Musa (Jaiz Bank), and Walter Akpani (Providus Bank).
The anti-graft agency is currently probing public funds directed into private accounts, ordered by Mses Edu and Farouq using their position as ministers.
Sources said the CEOs of bankers were seen at the offices of the anti-graft agency EFCC on Tuesday over the matter and handed over documents of accounts operated by the humanitarian affairs ministry to the EFCC to strengthen the ongoing investigation.
According to the source, the banking executives were questioned over the improper diversion of public funds into private accounts but were released after meeting with EFCC interrogators.
EFCC Spokesperson, Dele Oyewale could not confirm the development at press time as he was not reachable.
Ms. Farouq, the former Minister of, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development under the previous administration, is also under investigation for the mismanagement of at least N37 billion in public funds designated for the conditional cash transfer program of the last regime of President Muhammadu Buhari.
Meanwhile, Ms Edu in a Facebook post addressed to Npower beneficiaries that her hands are clean amid the uproar over her illegal request to wire funds into a private account.
She wrote: “Dear Npower Beneficiaries, I want to assure you all to remain calm and steadfast amidst the recent accusations and suspension I am facing. My heart and hands are clean, and I am committed to fighting corruption,” Ms Edu said.
“It’s essential to be aware that some individuals with impure intentions may use government machinery against you. Stay strong, and together, we will navigate through these challenges.”
There have been several financial corruption investigations
Since the administration of President Bola Tinubu assumed power it has launched investigations into affairs of government agencies resulting in the detention of prominent figures like CBN governor Godwin Emefiele and EFCC chair Rasheed Bawa.
