President Bola Tinubu has urgently summoned the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to Aso Rock following revelations of a N438 million consultancy fee payment to a company associated with him by suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu.
The company in question, New Planet Project Limited, was among several consultants awarded contracts from the N3 billion allocated by the suspended minister for the National Social Register program. This register was established for cash transfers and other social investment initiatives. Notably, New Planet Project Limited received an initial payment of N279 million for list verification, followed by an additional N159 million for the same purpose.
The unfolding scandal has ignited public outcry on social media, with calls for the suspension of the Interior Minister echoing those made against Betta Edu. Sodiq Tade expressed concern, stating, “If Tunji-Ojo is a shareholder in a company involved in corruption dealings, he must step aside, just like Betta Edu. Accountability is crucial for our country’s progress.”
Omotayo Williams added to the discourse, stating, “It’s evident that Tunji-Ojo has used his position to influence his company’s contract. We must hold everyone equally accountable for the sake of our nation’s progress.” The situation continues to garner attention, raising questions about transparency and accountability within the government.
