The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has conducted an extensive interrogation of Hajia Halima Shehu, the National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). The intense questioning took place at her office in Maitama, Abuja, lasting for several hours.
Hajia Halima Shehu had recently been suspended from her position by President Bola Tinubu, though no official statement has been released by the Presidency, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, or the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
The suspension came on the heels of an undercover investigation conducted by a Nigerian online platform, exposing fraudulent activities in a degree mill in Cotonou, Benin Republic. The investigative reporter, who managed to obtain a degree within six weeks, had also allegedly participated in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.
The controversy further unfolded as Shehu was set to distribute starter packs to victims of a kidney harvest in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. The event was abruptly suspended following an alleged directive from the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu.
Subsequently, EFCC operatives descended on Shehu’s office, engaging in a prolonged session of questioning that commenced at 9 a.m. and concluded around 4:30 p.m. Following the interrogation, Shehu accompanied the EFCC officials to an undisclosed location.
Hajia Halima Shehu, before her Senate confirmation, served as the National Programme Coordinator of the National Conditional Cash Transfer Office (NCTO) during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
In response to the unconfirmed suspension, Comrade Auwal Ibrahim Musa Rafisanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), urged President Bola Tinubu to adhere to due process when handling the suspension or removal of public officers and political appointees approved by the Senate.
Rafisanjani emphasized the importance of coordination among ministers overseeing agencies and parastatals, urging a better understanding of their roles. He stressed the need for regular capacity enhancement and leadership training to enhance efficiency and accountability in public service.
The civil society leader underscored the significance of following transparent due process in addressing issues that may warrant the suspension or removal of any Senate-screened appointee, emphasizing the constitutional requirements for such actions.