A former deputy governor of Lagos, Olufemi Pedro, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians to give the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, a second chance.
In a statement he personally signed and made available to Blueprint in Abuja, Wednesday, Pedro said despite her presently being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over payment of public funds into a private account, “Betta Edu is a promising bright star who could have served this nation in higher capacities.”
He advised public office holders to always seek the counsel of mentors and experienced public servants; in order not to make the same mistakes Edu is presently being criticised and investigated for.
He said: “I first met Betta when she was introduced to me as a candidate for Women Leader of our party in Abuja in early 2022. Shortly after, she was in Lagos on a courtesy visit and I immediately liked her style, her carriage and comportment. She exuded confidence, was articulate, knew what she wanted and appeared to me as focused, determined and ambitious. She later won the election and became the Party’s Women Leader.
“Betta worked very hard during the campaign. She was everywhere mobilizing women, campaigned with the Presidential Campaign team all over the country, and attended most of the events. We also traveled together to attend the Chatham House event where she was asked to respond to a question by our Candidate and she discharged herself creditably.
“I wasn’t surprised when she eventually became a Minister. Honestly, if I were the President, I would not have hesitated to also appoint her as Minister because she’s not too young to serve as Minister. She’s a qualified medical doctor, experienced enough as a former commissioner and women leader of our party, and has demonstrated drive, passion, and loyalty to qualify as a Minister.
“This is where I disagree with those who are tagging her as too inexperienced, too young and too green to be appointed Minister.
