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By News Desk
ABUJA, Nigeria — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked widespread public criticism following the inclusion of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, on its newly unveiled 2027 Presidential Campaign Council.
In a list released by the governing party’s leadership, Edu was appointed as the Director of Women Mobilization. The decision has drawn sharp pushback from civil rights activists and opposition figures, who point to her unresolved investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of financial misconduct.
Reactions to the Appointment
Public reaction across social media platforms and civic groups intensified following the announcement, with critics questioning the political ethics of elevating figures subject to active corruption probes:
- Opposition Criticism: Social media commentators and opposition advocates argued that appointing individuals undergoing public anti-graft scrutiny undermines public trust and signals indifference toward accountability.
- Party Rationale: APC strategists defended the composition of the campaign team, describing Edu as a proven grass-roots organizer who previously served as the party’s National Woman Leader and successfully mobilized women voters during the 2023 general elections.
- Broader Composition: Alongside Edu, former chairperson of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) board, Dr. Ngozi Olejeme, was assigned a zonal directorate role on the campaign council, while Senator Abdulaziz Yari was designated as Director-General.
Background on EFCC Investigation
Dr. Betta Edu was suspended from executive office in January 2024 following allegations involving the transfer of ₦585 million in public humanitarian funds into a private bank account. While the EFCC’s investigation into the ministry’s financial records remains ongoing, the party’s decision to re-engage her in a high-profile electoral role has reignited debates over political governance and anti-corruption standards in Nigeria.
