Halima Shehu, Ex-NSIPA national coordinator demands release of EFCC probe

Former National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Halima Shehu, has appealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) make public the outcome of its investigation into allegations of financial impropriety levelled against her.

Shehu, who was suspended by President Tinubu in January 2024 less than four months after assuming office, said the release of the EFCC’s findings would clear her name and bring closure to the matter.

In an open letterAshe signed, the former NSIPA boss denied any wrongdoing, insisting that the allegations of financial embezzlement against her were false and had caused significant emotional, financial and reputational damage to her and her family.

She said: “I have come with humility believing you are yet to know the depth to which I single-handedly fought the wrongdoings at NSIPA. The proactive steps I took to fight corruption should earn me your honour, not dishonour.”

According to Shehu, she uncovered widespread financial irregularities and weak internal controls shortly after taking over the agency and reported the alleged infractions to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on December 22, 2023, with supporting documents for investigation.

She claimed that about 10 days after submitting the report, she was suspended from office without receiving any feedback from the anti-corruption agencies.

The former NSIPA chief further alleged that nearly ₦14 billion was withdrawn from the agency’s accounts during her tenure without her knowledge or approval. She also claimed that unauthorised signatories were added to the agency’s Remita account with the Central Bank of Nigeria, allowing transactions to be carried out outside her authority.

“As the chief accounting officer, these actions occurred beyond my control,” she stated.