Recent news has highlighted a case involving Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Oniyelu Bridget Mojisola. Indeed, a leaked document reveals that the minister allegedly directed the payment of N585.189 million meant for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun and Lagos states to a private account.
The scandal sparked strong criticism from different quarters, with many Nigerians suspecting malfeasance in the approval process. Civil society organizations also called on President Bola Tinubu not to tolerate impunity and called for the minister’s dismissal and interrogation by anti-corruption agencies.
Reacting to the calls, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said: “The matter is under investigation” and added that “appropriate action will be taken afterwards”.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Rasheed Zubair, on January 5, 2023, Oniyelu Bridget Mojisola claimed that the payment followed regulatory procedures.
Zubair also pointed out that the corruption allegations against the minister were a smear campaign by disgruntled elements seeking to tarnish her reputation.
He further explained that Bridget was the accountant in charge of the Renewed Hope grant project for vulnerable groups, hence the money was paid into her account.
This case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the use of funds intended for vulnerable groups. It is essential that authorities take swift and decisive action to investigate these allegations and ensure those responsible are held to account.
Nigeria faces many educational challenges, including unequal access to education and low quality of teaching. It is therefore imperative that funds earmarked for education are used effectively to improve the learning conditions of young Nigerians.
Nigerians expect concrete action from authorities to restore confidence in the education system and ensure that financial resources are used transparently and for the benefit of students and teachers.