EFCC Scrutinizes Accountant-General Over Financial Allegations in Humanitarian Ministry
In a significant development, investigators from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) conducted a thorough interrogation of the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, on Tuesday.
The focus of the inquiry revolves around the alleged financial irregularities within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development.
Probing Cash Movements and N3 Billion COVID-19 Fund Withdrawal
The EFCC officials questioned the AGF regarding suspicious cash movements from the ministry to private individuals’ bank accounts.
Moreover, they sought clarification on the alleged withdrawal of N3 billion from a COVID-19 dedicated account intended for specific projects within the same ministry.
New Dimensions Uncovered in Ongoing Investigation
Sources within the anti-graft agency disclosed that the ongoing probe involving the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Dr. Betta Edu, her predecessor Sadiya Umar-Farouq, and the National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Halima Shehu, has taken new turns.
The AGF, following her interrogation on Monday, was directed to produce essential documents.
Request for Detailed Explanations and Documents
The EFCC’s investigative team has called on the AGF to provide comprehensive details on the management of requests and disbursement of funds within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
They requested relevant letters, circulars, and directives to shed light on the circumstances leading to payments into private accounts.
A notable revelation pertains to the withdrawal of N3 billion from the COVID-19 Account through the Office of the AGF to support the ministry’s activities.
AGF’s Central Role in Fund Management
Highlighting the central role of the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) in fund management, the EFCC stressed the significance of the AGF’s involvement in the ongoing investigation.
They indicated that the AGF would remain on standby for intermittent engagement in the coming weeks.
EFCC Cites AGF’s Previous Statement
Another source confirmed that the AGF was invited due to a statement she made, indicating knowledge beyond what was publicly disclosed.
The EFCC considers her statement crucial to their investigation, and her cooperation has proven to be helpful, necessitating further interaction in the future.