In an unexpected turn of events, Betta Edu’s name resurfaced in the news after reports claimed she had attempted to return to her role as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The speculation about her return began circulating on social media when it was alleged that Edu had staged her reinstatement.
During her suspension, Edu had used the ministry’s official letterhead to issue a condolence message regarding a tragic incident in Jos, Plateau State, where a school building had collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 22 pupils from Saint Academy. Edu, who had been suspended by President Bola Tinubu in January due to accusations of attempting to divert N585 million through a private account, seemed to be making a move that suggested she was resuming her duties.
Despite being suspended, Edu penned a heartfelt message using the ministry’s letterhead, expressing profound grief and sympathy for the victims of the building collapse. Her letter read, “It’s with profound grief that I extend my deepest condolences on the tragic collapse of the school building in Jos, Plateau State, which has resulted in the loss of multiple lives and left many survivors grappling with unimaginable pain and suffering. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may the injured receive swift and complete healing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and all those affected during this incredibly difficult time.”
However, Edu’s attempt to return did not go unnoticed or unchallenged. Ministry officials were quick to dismiss the rumors of her reinstatement. An anonymous staff member revealed the seriousness of Edu’s actions, stating, “It’s like she doesn’t know the implications of what she just did—writing with official letterhead while on suspension! What audacity! It is wrong. The last time she tried to stage a comeback was when she brought some people who claimed to be prayer warriors into the ministry to pray, saying she was under spiritual attack. We found her praying in the office while the gate was locked. The permanent secretary warned her not to try that again. Since then, she has not returned.”
Another official emphasized the gravity of Edu’s situation, saying, “It’s a serious offense to continue functioning while under suspension. She needs to wait for clearance before making any attempts to return. Perhaps she forgot that this is a fraud allegation, and it’s well documented. Someone should remind her to wait until everything is resolved.”
The officials confirmed that Edu had not resumed her duties and that her use of the ministry’s letterhead while suspended was both inappropriate and against protocol. Despite her efforts, Edu’s attempt to re-enter her position remained unsuccessful, and her future actions were closely scrutinized by ministry staff.
