Northern Coalition Urges Impartial Investigation Into Suspension of NSIPA Boss, Vindicates Edu
…Advocacy group calls for fair assessment of Minister’s actions, denounces ethnic interpretations
The Northern Coalition for Humanitarian Progress (NCHP) has issued a statement urging an impartial investigation into the suspension of Hajia Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). Contrary to earlier reports, the coalition refrains from exonerating Shehu and expresses belief that the Minister, Dr. Betta Edu, acted with evidence for the betterment of the country.
In a carefully worded communication issued to the media in Abuja on Friday, the coalition led by Alhaji Sanusi Mohammed, called for a fair and impartial investigation into the allegations against Hajia Halima Shehu. The group refrained from commending or exonerating Shehu, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations and emphasizing the need for due process.
The coalition stated its belief that Minister Dr. Betta Edu took action based on evidence, asserting that the Minister’s decisions were in the best interest of the country. While refraining from direct commendation, the group acknowledged the gravity of the situation and expressed trust in the Minister’s commitment to the well-being of the nation.
Addressing emerging ethnic interpretations surrounding the suspension, the coalition strongly condemned any attempts to attribute tribal motives to the Minister’s actions. Emphasizing Dr. Betta Edu’s non-tribalistic stance, the group urged the public to refrain from injecting ethnic sentiments into the unfolding events, adding that events playing around the office of the suspended Shehu in recent times portend corruption.
The coalition’s statement called for transparency and accountability in the investigation process and emphasized the importance of handling the matter without bias. The advocates reiterated their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote fairness, regardless of ethnic or tribal affiliations.
The coalition commended the Ministry’s swift and decisive response to the Christmas Eve attacks in Plateau state. Minister Dr. Betta Edu’s coordination with the military and the state government in deploying immediate relief materials demonstrated a commitment to providing timely and effective humanitarian aid to affected communities.
The Ministry’s recent initiative to create jobs for millions of Nigerians, particularly in regions affected by humanitarian crises, was underscored as a commendable step towards addressing unemployment and enhancing response capabilities. The focus on hiring temporary humanitarian aid workers reflected a proactive approach to addressing critical needs.
