The suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, has distanced herself from groups organizing protests demanding her reinstatement to President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
In a statement released on Monday, Edu’s media aide, Rasheed Olanrewaju, clarified that the minister did not authorize any public prayers or protests on her behalf.
Edu, currently under investigation, expressed confidence in the government’s ongoing inquiry and assured her full cooperation with the authorities.
She emphasized that she did not sponsor any public activities and urged those planning protests to halt their efforts to ensure a smooth investigation into the allegations against her.
The statement read: “Following recent developments, [we] would like to thank various stakeholders for their immense support since the unfortunate chain of events at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Dr. Betta Edu remains committed and confident in the investigative process instituted by President Bola Tinubu and is cooperating fully with relevant authorities.
“The Minister has however been made aware of several efforts by individuals, supporters and others to organise public prayers, road walk and or protests to show public support.
“We wish to use this medium to state that such efforts are not approved by her or any member of her team and should be discontinued forthwith because such efforts – no matter how noble the intent, it could be seen as an attempt to pre-empt the outcome of the investigations, or can be hijacked by nefarious persons with ulterior motives.
“We kindly request that those with such plans should show their support by respecting the process and await the official findings and conclusions.
“Your understanding and cooperation are highly appreciated at this time. She is indeed grateful for the overwhelming support from Nigerians across all strata of society especially those most dear to her heart; the Poor and vulnerable.
“By God’s Grace, she will be back to continue her selfless service to humanity, especially to the poorest of the poor whose prayers have kept her strong thus far.”
