*Betta Chimaobim Edu: A Resilient Leader Amidst Controversy*

Betta Chimaobim Edu has emerged as a prominent political figure with a career marked by resilience and dedication. Edu's early life reveals a strong foundation in education, completing her secondary education at the Federal Government Girls College, Calabar, and obtaining a degree in medicine and surgery from the University of Calabar in 2009. Her academic journey continued with a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, a master's degree in Public Health, and a Doctor of Public Health from Texila American University.

It is believed that a man cannot be sent to the well unless it is sure he can bring back water. This is to say that no one will be called upon to take up a task without knowing that there is a strong ability in such person to undertake activities attached to his/her office. In 2015, Edu became the youngest Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Cross River State, focusing on Community and Primary Healthcare. Her impact was further evident in 2020 when she chaired the Cross River State COVID-19 Taskforce, earning accolades for her proactive measures. Awards, including the Nigeria Quintessential Woman Award (2020) and the Award of Excellence in Leadership for gender inclusion and women empowerment (2023), speak to Edu's commitment to uplifting women, children, and vulnerable groups in Nigeria. In July 2023, she was nominated and sworn in as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, becoming the first female minister from Cross River State and the youngest minister in the Fourth Nigerian Republic.

There have been various allegations in the past, aimed at her, but like a phoenix, she has risen above all after they were found baseless. All these accusations cannot but surface because all would agree with me that public office cannot be a bed of rose. On January 8, 2024, Edu was suspended from her ministerial position by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for an alleged ₦585 million scandal. The President called for a thorough investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Edu's suspension seems to be the result of a coordinated attack, involving technocrats, bureaucrats, and party members in the government.

The specific allegation revolves around Edu approving the transfer of project funds to a private account. The argument is that this is a procedural matter and not indicative of fraud, emphasizing the responsibility of the Accountant General's office to accept or refuse such requests. The Permanent Secretary and the Accountant of the Ministry share responsibility for advising on such matters and should be held accountable for any dereliction of duty. The issue, therefore, appears more as a ministerial concern rather than a personal one, highlighting potential systemic flaws.

In politics, controversies often arise from political interests rather than clear-cut right or wrong distinctions. Edu's suspension could be a consequence of her competence, passion, and audacity to occupy a significant role at a relatively young age. In lieu of this, the controversy demands a thorough investigation, and it is crucial for the public, especially the youth, to critically assess the available information. Jumping into a "cancel culture" targeting promising leaders without understanding the intricacies of governance can be detrimental.

While critically examining this matter, Edu's dedication to women and youth participation and recognition within the political sphere should not be overlooked. Her swift rise from Special Adviser to becoming a Minister demonstrates not only her individual capabilities but also the potential for young leaders in Nigerian politics. While the controversy unfolds, it is important to acknowledge Edu's past contributions and not let them be overshadowed by the present situation. As a symbol of resilience and leadership, Edu’s story continues to inspire those aspiring to make a positive impact on their communities. The accusation of misappropriating 585 million Naira raises questions about administrative decisions versus intentional fraudulent activities. The distinction between the two should guide the ongoing investigation and subsequent judgment.

Also, the North Central Youth Parliament's vote of confidence in Edu emphasizes the support she continues to receive. The recognition of her courage in exposing a 44 billion Naira fraud in the National Social Investment Programme Agency showcases her commitment to transparency and accountability. Edu's track record of collaborating with international development partners and mobilizing significant funds for the state health system demonstrates her ability to navigate complex situations. The current controversy should be seen in the context of her broader contributions.

As the controversy surrounding Edu unfolds, it is crucial for the public to remain vigilant and open-minded. In times of crisis, individuals often face scrutiny and judgment. Edu's suspension, while raising valid concerns, should not erase the substantial impact she has made in various capacities. The awards and recognitions she has received underscore her positive influence on women and vulnerable groups in Nigeria which makes her a round peg in a round hole. In assessing the situation, it is important to consider the potential for unintentional errors in the handling of project funds. Edu's defense revolves around procedural matters, highlighting the need for an understanding of administrative intricacies.

The call for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ignore calls from corrupt elements and focus on commendation rather than persecution reinforces the idea that the controversy might be politically motivated. It emphasizes the need to separate genuine concerns from those driven by personal or political agendas because Edu's zeal for humanitarian work has been both her strength and, perhaps, a vulnerability.

In conclusion, Betta Chimaobim Edu's story is one of both triumphs and challenges. As the controversy unfolds, it is crucial to maintain a balanced perspective, acknowledging her past achievements while critically assessing the present situation. Despite the current challenges, it is important to recognize that individuals dedicated to public service can sometimes find themselves entangled in complex situations, often manipulated for political gain.

ONDO 2024: WALE AKINTERINWA LEADS WITH WIDE MARGIN IN LATEST OPINION POLL.


Ahead of the APC primary election fixed for April 2024 and the Governorship election scheduled for November 2024 by INEC, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa, the incumbent State Commissioner for Finance, has emerged as the most preferred person to become the next Governor of Ondo State.
According to a report released today in Akure, the Ondo State capital, by Research Frontiers, a Political and Socio-Economic Research Bureau. an opinion poll conducted among critical political stakeholders in the State placed Mr. Akinterinwa ahead of the pack with 55% while the incumbent Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, trails with 25%, Chief Oluwole Oke with 5%, Princess Oladunni Odu with 5%, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim with 5% while the other contestants like Odimayo, Lebi and Akinfolarin have little or no significant impact, and collectively polled 5%.

Research Frontiers said it polled a sample population of 1000 people drawn from the 18 Local Government Areas of the State. The sample population was drawn among influencers, state and ward party party leaders, media, party elders, senior citizens of the state, and other political actors in the State. The poll was done online and also physically. The respondents were asked to appraise the leading aspirants on 10 parameters with weighted ratings, as follows:

Vision for Ondo State (10%)
Governance Experience (15%)
Education and academic qualifications (5%)
Knowledge of Ondo State (15%)
Mastery of Development Economics (10%)
Integrity (10%)
Political Awareness (10%)
Leadership Orientation (10%)
Empathy and social capital (5%)
Pedigree/Achievements (10%)
Mr. Akinterinwa was ahead of other contestants in all the 10 parameters, according to the report of the opinion poll. His rating was justified with the explanation of the feedback from the poll respondents who said that based on his extensive working knowledge of the process of governance in Ondo State, his pedigree, mastery of development economics, integrity, reputation, leadership orientation, high level of political sophistication and willingness to lift the underprivileged, he is ahead of other aspirants.

“He has been a pivotal member of the Aketi administration since its inception, making him very experienced in his knowledge of the development needs of Ondo State and the process of contemporary governance. Mr Akinterinwa is a two-term commissioner under the Akeredolu administration, and he previously served as Commissioner under the Mimiko administration, making him the only Commissioner for Finance who has been sworn in thrice to occupy the position.

Despite the death of Akeredolu, Mr. Akinterinwa has been retained under the Aiyedatiwa administration. The respondents said this experience is invaluable and is needed at this crucial time in Ondo State”, according to the opinion poll report signed by Mr. Lawrence Oriakhi, the CEO of Research Frontiers.
Having made his mark in Lagos State as an investment banker, economic analyst, policy strategist, and administrator, his emergence as the Commissioner for Finance in Ondo State, first under the administration of Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, and under the Akeredolu administration, is a testimony of his deep knowledge of, and immense experience in finance and economic matters. He is one of the Commissioners regarded as square pegs in square holes, having proved his mettle over and over again.

Education
He attended K. Kotun Nursery and Primary School, Surulere, Lagos. He later proceeded to Government College, Ibadan (GCI) where he obtained his West African School Certificate in 1979. He obtained B.Sc. in Accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife in 1987. He also obtained an MBA from the same institution in 1999. He has attended various courses both at home and abroad in Banking, Finance, Leadership, Management, and Strategic Planning

Career history

Since 1989, he has worked and distinguished himself in various reputable establishments such as Afro-continental Nigeria, Triumph Merchant Bank (Head of Treasury & Financial Services); Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (Special Assistant on Finance, Investment & Strategy); Gideon Trust Investment Limited (Executive Vice Chairman/CEO); Gideon Trust Micro-finance Bank (Chairman); Emergent Power & Energy Dev. Company (Non-Executive Director/Board Member); Commissioner, Ministry of Finance, Ondo State (Mar-Nov 2009); Commissioner, Ministry of Finance, Ondo State (2017 till date)

Strong financial and business management pedigree
Mr. Akinterinwa is a corporate finance professional, with a strong accounting and management background. He has nearly three decades of hands-on professional engagement spanning diverse areas of investment banking, project finance, real estate development, consulting, and public sector engagement.

He has successfully pioneered and managed several corporate restructuring and business repositioning projects that have delivered reasonable returns to investors. His astute management of Ondo State’s finances has led to more prudent utilization of resources with wastages being eliminated and new revenue streams being opened up as the state forges ahead in its drive to increase Internally-Generated Revenue (IGR) and diversify its economy.
Highlights of his career milestone

He played a pivotal role in the restructuring and reorganisation of the Lagos State Property Development Corporation for improved performance, and this birthed most of the Government housing estates that ameliorated the housing shortage in Lagos State during the administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and till today. His mastery of financial planning and economic management has helped Ondo State to develop a structured and focused approach to the management of its economy.
Political and social activities.

Political and social activities

He contested for a seat in the House of Representatives (Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo/Odigbo Federal Constituency) on the platform of the Alliance for Democracy in 2003. He was also a governorship aspirant in 2012 on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria. He is a member of many clubs and societies including the prestigious Ikoyi Club 1938. A golfer, Wale loves football, reading, listening to music, and engaging in community development activities.
Mr Akinterinwa’s governorship ambition is well-known to the people of Ondo State, and it has been applauded across the length and breadth of the State. Sources close to him divulged that Mr. Wale Akinterinwa is expected to formally declare his ambition any time soon.
#WAkajose🤝
#OndoDecides2024

His phone number for what?

The governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has been facing difficulties in finding a First Lady since he was sworn into office. Reports indicate that he is considering one woman among three contenders, but no one seems willing to take on the role due to his history of mistreating women.

Aiyedatiwa's wife, Seun, is said to have left him due to his abusive behavior. Sources claim that he would frequently beat her, leaving her in fear for her life. She was forced to flee and hide elsewhere to escape his violence.

In an attempt to reconcile with his wife, Aiyedatiwa is reportedly offering her a sum of 200 million naira. However, Seun has reportedly refused the offer, indicating her unwillingness to return to a relationship marked by abuse.

The governor's history of violence against women has drawn widespread criticism. A group of Ondo women recently wrote to human rights organizations, expressing their concern over Aiyedatiwa's behavior and questioning his suitability for leadership.

Given the allegations against him, it is understandable why women would be hesitant to associate themselves with Aiyedatiwa. His actions have raised serious doubts about his character and fitness for public office. Until he addresses these concerns and demonstrates a genuine commitment to changing his behavior, it is unlikely that he will find a woman willing to become his First Lady.