In a groundbreaking development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) took decisive actions yesterday, seizing the travel documents of Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and her predecessor Hajiya Sadiya Umar-Farouq. Additionally, the international passport of Halima Shehu, the suspended National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), was also impounded.
The trio is currently under intense interrogation, facing allegations of financial crimes. The seizure of their passports is part of the conditions set for granting administrative bail, with the travel papers held by the commission until the investigation concludes.
An EFCC source revealed, “We have requested all those under interrogation to submit their travel documents. Passports of Betta, Sadiya, Halima, and others have been seized. They were demanded to restrict movement, ensuring their availability for interrogation, and they are all cooperating with us.”
During the investigation, Dr. Betta Edu, grilled from 11 am till 6 pm, was the last to be granted bail yesterday.
Simultaneously, the EFCC turned its attention to the suspected conspiracy involving three managing directors of banks. These financial institutions are accused of neglecting to raise “red flags” and engaging in suspicious transactions, allegedly violating the Anti-Money Laundering Act (Amendment) 2023, particularly Sections 5, 10, and 16(b). The unfolding events underscore the gravity of the allegations, prompting a thorough examination of both individuals and financial institutions involved.
