Ex-NSIPA CEO Says EFCC Probe Will Vindicate Her, Urges Tinubu to Release Report

Former Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Halima Shehu, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to direct the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release the report of its investigation into allegations that led to her suspension.

Shehu made the appeal in an open letter addressed to the President, insisting that the EFCC’s findings would clear her of any wrongdoing.

The former NSIPA boss was suspended in January 2024 following allegations of financial misconduct at the agency. The EFCC subsequently questioned her as part of its investigation but has yet to publicly disclose the outcome of its findings.

In the letter, Shehu described the allegations against her as false and said the prolonged silence over the investigation had caused significant emotional, financial and reputational hardship for her and her family.

“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,” she wrote.

Shehu stated that she supported Tinubu’s presidential campaign despite losing her previous position under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari because of her political affiliation.

According to her, shortly after assuming office at NSIPA, she uncovered widespread financial irregularities and weak internal controls within the agency.

She said she reported the alleged infractions to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on December 22, 2023, submitting documentary evidence for investigation.

Shehu alleged that barely 10 days after filing the complaint, she was suspended from office without receiving any response from the anti-corruption agencies.

The former NSIPA chief further claimed that nearly ₦14 billion was withdrawn from the agency’s accounts during her tenure without her knowledge or approval.

She also alleged that unauthorised signatories were added to NSIPA’s Remita account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), allowing transactions to be conducted outside her authority.

Shehu maintained that the EFCC recovered no funds from her and insisted her record in public service remained one of accountability.

She said she had repeatedly written to the EFCC, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and the President, seeking publication of the investigation report.

“My only prayer has been for closure and direct public release of the investigation report so the truth can be known and I can be free to continue to serve my country,” she said.