From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Borno residents and a coalition of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Borno state have debunked the call seeking for the reinstatement of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu by a group, Coalition of Internally Displaced Persons in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe state.
This is as the group stated that those behind the call are faceless, claiming to represent IDPs from Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, just for their own selfish interest, asking Edu to stop using the Borno flood crisis to blackmail the government of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Describing the call as misleading and self-serving, in a press statement issued to newsmen in Kaduna on Friday, by the Spokesperson, Concerned Residents of Borno State and Chairman of IDP, Mr. Dalori Ibrahim Bukar and Sani Yahaya Buratai, the group noted that Dr. Edu’s tenure was marred by corruption, mismanagement, and incompetence and as such should not be reinstated for any reason.
They alleged that Dr. Edu is attempting to exploit the crisis in Maiduguri to manipulate her way back into the position, with the ultimate goal of completely undermining the ministry, demanding that the same standards of accountability that led to Halima Shehu’s removal should equally apply to Dr. Edu as anything less would be a miscarriage of justice.
Threatening a nationwide protests if Edu is reinstated, the concerned group also highlighted the numerous instances of corruption and mismanagement that characterized Dr. Edu’s tenure, including the diversion of funds meant for IDPs and the award of contracts to unqualified companies, stating that the call for Edu’s reinstatement is out of place and embarrassing.
They emphasized that the IDPs and residents of Borno state have suffered enough under Dr. Edu’s leadership and would not allow her to return to power, stressing that they would not settle for anything less than a new leadership with a proven track record of integrity, compassion, and competence.
”We, the Concerned Residents of Borno State and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), are utterly dismayed and appalled by the recent calls for Dr. Betta Edu’s reinstatement as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
”This demand is not only outrageous but also a slap in the face to the vulnerable people she was meant to serve. It is an insult to the very people who have suffered immensely due to her incompetence and corruption.
”Dr. Edu’s suspension was a result of serious allegations of corruption and mismanagement, which had a devastating impact on our community. Her actions, or lack thereof, exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in our state, leaving thousands of people without adequate support or assistance.
“She failed to provide the necessary aid, resources, and support to those who needed it most, and instead, chose to enrich herself and her allies.
“We cannot fathom how anyone would think of reinstating someone who has stolen from us, literally and figuratively. Dr. Edu’s tenure was marked by incompetence, corruption, and a callous disregard for the welfare of IDPs.
“Her return would be a betrayal of our trust and a clear indication that the government is not committed to accountability and transparency. It would send a message that corruption is tolerated and that those in power can act with impunity.
“Furthermore, we reject Dr. Edu’s attempts to use our situation to blackmail the government. Her claims of being the only one who can effectively coordinate humanitarian efforts are not only false but also insulting. We will not be used as pawns in her political games, and we will not stand idly by while she attempts to regain power. We will not be silenced by her empty promises and false claims.
“The replacement of Halima Shehu has set a precedent – corrupt officials will be held accountable, and new leaders will be given the opportunity to make a positive impact. Dr. Edu’s return would undermine this progress and erode trust in the system. We warn that any attempt to reinstate her will be met with nationwide protests. Our voices will not be silenced, and we will fight for the justice and accountability we deserve.
“We demand a new appointment, someone with a proven track record of integrity, compassion, and competence. Someone who will prioritize the needs of IDPs and work tirelessly to address the humanitarian crisis in our state. Someone who will restore our trust in the government and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.We will not settle for anything less.”the statement reads.