Dear Betta Edu, resign and apologise to Nigerians

BY ‘NIYI OGUNKOYA

Dear Ms. Betta Edu, honourable minister for humanitarian affairs,

I write to you today not as a critic, but as a concerned citizen, a taxpayer, and a Nigerian whose heart bleeds for the vulnerable of our nation. It is with profound disappointment and outrage that I address the recent allegations surrounding the diversion of humanitarian funds into personal accounts. This, if true, is not merely a lapse in judgment; it is a blatant violation of public trust, a gross abuse of power, and a brazen act of corruption that cannot be tolerated.

The role of the minister of humanitarian affairs is sacred. You are entrusted with the lifeline of countless individuals displaced by conflict, ravaged by natural disasters, or simply struggling to survive the harsh realities of poverty.

These vulnerable souls depend on your integrity and competence to ensure that life-saving resources reach them. To allegedly direct funds meant for their basic needs and survival into personal accounts is a betrayal of the highest order.

It is not enough to simply deny these accusations. You hold a position of immense public responsibility, and with it comes the obligation to be transparent and accountable. Hiding behind press releases and pronouncements will not quell the rising tide of anger and disbelief amongst Nigerians—the very people you swore to serve.

Therefore, Ms Betta Edu, I urge you to take the following honourable steps immediately:

1. Resign from your position: This is not about guilt or innocence; it is about restoring shattered trust and paving the way for a thorough and unbiased investigation. The cloud of suspicion that hangs over your head now renders you incapable of effectively fulfilling your duties and managing the resources meant for the vulnerable. Stepping aside is the only honourable course of action, adhere to it.

2. Fully cooperate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC): Allow the EFCC to conduct a transparent and unhindered investigation into these allegations. Submit yourself to questioning, provide any necessary documents, and cooperate fully with the legal process. Only through such cooperation can the truth be revealed, and justice be served.

3. Offer a public apology: Whether the accusations are true or not, a sincere apology to Nigerians is due. Acknowledge the pain and anger this situation has caused, accept responsibility for the erosion of trust, and express your commitment to upholding the highest standards of public service.

Your actions, Ms. Edu, have not only tarnished your reputation but have also inflicted a deep wound on the integrity of our nation. We, the people of Nigeria, deserve better. We deserve leaders who act with compassion, transparency, and genuine commitment to the well-being of all citizens, especially the most vulnerable.

The time for excuses and delays is over. Resign, cooperate with the investigation, and allow the truth to prevail. Only then can we begin the process of healing the wounds you have inflicted and rebuilding the trust that is essential for a nation to thrive.

‘Niyi Ogunkoya, a concerned Nigerian citizen, can be reached via [email protected]