Urgent: EFCC Apprehends Suspended NSIPA Head, Halima Shehu
In a recent development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken into custody Hajia Halima Shehu, the suspended National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). The arrest occurred during a prolonged questioning session held at her office in Maitama, Abuja.
Although there has been no official statement from the Presidency, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, or the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation regarding Shehu’s alleged suspension, the EFCC’s actions suggest a significant investigation.
The incident unfolded as Shehu was preparing to distribute starter packs to victims of a reported kidney harvest in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. However, an alleged directive, conveyed through a letter purportedly signed by Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, led to the suspension of the planned event.
Following the suspension, EFCC operatives conducted a thorough inquiry at Shehu’s office on Taraba Crescent in Maitama. The closed-door meeting, commencing at 9 a.m. and concluding at approximately 4:30 p.m., resulted in Shehu accompanying EFCC officials to an undisclosed location.
It’s essential to note that before her recent Senate confirmation, Hajia Shehu held the position of National Programme Coordinator at the National Conditional Cash Transfer Office (NCTO) during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.