The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the country’s anti-corruption agency, has reportedly extended invitations to eight former ministers who served under the previous administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
Politics Nigeria reports that these former ministers have been called in for questioning regarding allegations of corruption.
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The invitation letters sent to these high-ranking government officials specifically requested them to provide explanations about the utilization of funds allocated to their respective ministries for designated projects during their tenure.
The letters were dispatched before the suspension of Abdulrasheed Bawa as the chairman of the commission, as investigations by the anti-graft agency were already underway.
According to insiders, among those summoned is Pauline Tallen, the former Minister of Women’s Affairs, who was invited last week in connection with an alleged fraud of N2 billion. The accusations include claims of diverting funds from the African First Lady Peace Mission Project. Additionally, seven other former ministers have also received invitations.
It is worth noting that Sale Mamman, the former Minister of Power during President Buhari’s administration, was arrested and detained by the commission last month. He is currently being investigated for his alleged involvement in a N22 billion fraud related to power projects.
Furthermore, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, the immediate past Minister of Police Affairs, has been summoned to provide explanations regarding the handling of the Police Trust Fund. The allegations suggest irregularities in the procurement of refurbished vehicles for the Nigeria Police, falsely presented as new.
When approached for comment, Minister Dingyadi responded, “Well, I’m not aware of the letter, I’ve not seen it. Maybe they sent it to the office, I will inquire from the office,” while maintaining anonymity during the conversation.
In addition to these individuals, the former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, and the immediate past Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, have also been summoned by the EFCC to provide clarity on some issues pertaining to their time in office.