The Presidency has officially announced the permanent exit of Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. Presidential spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, made this revelation during an appearance on Channels Television’s _Politics Today_ on Sunday [2).
Onanuga clarified that Edu would not return to her ministerial position following President Bola Tinubu’s recent cabinet reshuffle. This announcement ends months of speculation regarding Edu’s potential reinstatement to the Federal Executive Council.
Edu’s suspension was announced in January after allegations of a ₦585 million scandal involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. President Tinubu subsequently directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the ministry’s financial activities [2).
Onanuga stated, “Betta Edu is gone… Her position has been taken over by someone else — that’s the man from Plateau (Nentawe) who is now assuming the role.” Nentawe Yilwatda, the new minister, hails from Plateau State and boasts an impressive academic background, including a PhD from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka ¹.
Yilwatda’s expertise lies in Digital Systems Engineering, and he has held prominent roles in major national and international projects, including the World Bank-funded STEP-B project ¹.
The EFCC’s investigation played a significant role in President Tinubu’s decision to remove Edu from her position. Onanuga hinted, “The EFCC has not shared whatever they have, but if you consider the president’s action, it suggests that the EFCC may have submitted something that justified the president’s decision” [2).
Edu’s suspension and subsequent removal have sparked calls for accountability in the ministry’s financial dealings. The outcome of the EFCC’s investigation is now eagerly awaited.
As the new minister takes office, attention shifts to addressing the allegations of corruption and ensuring transparency in the ministry’s operations.
The development marks a significant change in the Federal Executive Council, emphasizing President Tinubu’s commitment to accountability and good governance.
With Edu’s exit confirmed, the focus now turns to Nentawe Yilwatda’s leadership and the ministry’s future direction under his guidance.
