Dr. BETTA EDU’S ACHIEVEMENTS AND PLEA FOR REINSTATEMENT

The Ondo State Oil-Producing Communities Frontliners Association of the coastal region of Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, has made an earnest plea for the reinstatement of Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. They are appealing to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to reconsider her suspension, given the current humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region due to widespread flooding.

The coastal communities, whose oil contributions significantly enhance the state’s Internal Generated Revenue (IGR), are facing unprecedented environmental challenges, including devastating floods that have displaced thousands of residents The state government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has been making commendable efforts to alleviate the suffering of the people. However, it is clear that the state government alone can not bear the burden of responding to the extensive environmental disasters caused by the floods and the ongoing impacts of oil exploration and exploitation.

In these trying times, the people of Ondo State sorely miss the remarkable leadership and humanitarian efforts of Dr. Betta Edu. As Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Edu championed poverty alleviation programs across the nation, especially for displaced people in conflict-affected regions. Her understanding of the needs of Nigerians was evident in her proactive approach to addressing crises, including the provision of critical resources to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and flood-affected communities.

Dr. Betta Edu’s tenure was marked by substantial achievements. She collaborated with international NGOs and organizations to ensure that Nigerians in distress or facing emergencies received timely assistance. Her ministry’s interventions were particularly impactful in communities displaced by banditry, where she facilitated the provision of essential services, built schools, and provided social amenities in IDP camps across the country. She ensured that basic needs such as shelter, food, healthcare, and education were met for those in dire situations, earning her widespread praise and respect for her compassionate leadership.

The oil-producing communities of Ilaje, alongside other flood-affected regions such as Borno State, where nearly 70% of the state is currently submerged, are now experiencing significant hardship. In this context, the reinstatement of Dr. Betta Edu is seen as critical. Her track record demonstrates that she is more than capable of leading a coordinated and effective response to the ongoing humanitarian crises.

Her brief but impactful time in office left an indelible mark on the lives of many Nigerians, especially those in marginalised and vulnerable communities. The people of Ondo State and other affected regions are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate Dr. Edu, allowing her to continue using her God-given talents to serve the country. Her reinstatement would not only ease the burden on the oil-producing communities but also reaffirm the commitment of the federal government to the well-being of all Nigerians, particularly in these challenging economic times.

The leadership and members of the Ondo State Frontliners Association, under Apostle Temitope Dadeowo Olowofoyekun, have joined other prominent political leaders and citizens across Nigeria in making this plea. They recognize Dr. Betta Edu’s tireless dedication and collaboration with other ministries and her efforts to alleviate the plight of the less privileged. Her reinstatement would undoubtedly bolster the implementation of the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Tinubu, ensuring that the administration’s efforts to uplift struggling Nigerians reach those who need it most.

Dr. Edu’s contributions to the humanitarian landscape of Nigeria are undeniable, and her return to office is essential in these critical times when the nation is grappling with both economic and environmental challenges. The people, especially in flood-ravaged areas, need her leadership now more than ever.

*Written by Apostle Temitope Dadeowo Olowofoyekun*

*Founder And Coordinator; Ondo State Oil-Producing Communities Frontliners Association* *( OSOFA)*