It is Time to Bring Her In: Bola Tinubu’s Quest for Principled and Effective Leadership – The Imperative of Abike Dabiri-Erewa as Minister Amidst Betta Edu’s Challenges -By John Egbeazien Oshodi

In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, the quest for principled leadership and good governance remains a perennial challenge. The Nigerian people, resilient and hopeful, yearn for leaders who not only understand the intricacies of public administration but also embody the values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. This quest for principled leadership has recently highlighted the significant role of Abike Dabiri-Erewa. Her actions, dedication, and the broader implications of her work for Nigeria’s political landscape have garnered significant attention.

At first glance, Dr. Betta Edu appeared to be a promising leader. As a Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, she inherited a critical portfolio in a country grappling with the challenges of poverty, inequality, and vulnerability. Her dedication to serving the vulnerable segments of society was evident, and her efforts to provide relief during trying times earned her a measure of sympathy and support from many quarters.

However, as time went on, the narrative surrounding Dr. Edu began to shift. The revelations of financial impropriety and questionable decisions raised concerns. It was alleged that she asked the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) to channel public funds into a private account, a move that defied established financial regulations and triggered alarm bells regarding transparency and accountability. The letter, bearing reference number FMHAPA/HQ/OHM/S.208, dated December 20, 2023, requested a staggering sum of over N585 million to be deposited into a private account belonging to a project manager named Oniyelu Bridget Mojisola. Oluwatoyin Madein, the Accountant-General of the Federation, took a different stance. Her office received the request but chose not to carry out the payment.

At the onset, I, from the point of empathy for a young woman, a physician, and her known drive to help the needy, expressed my support for her in an earlier article titled “A Sympathetic Appeal for Ethical Leadership: Dr. Betta Edu’s Path Forward.” In this article, I called for a deep psychological reflection on the motivations and ethical considerations behind the decision to transfer public funds into a private account, emphasizing the need to uphold the principles of good governance and public trust. I suggested to the president to allow her to remain in her position and embrace change as a means to drive positive transformation in Nigeria.

While the initial financial impropriety was concerning, another scandal involving Dr. Edu sent shockwaves throughout the nation. Documents obtained by the media exposed how the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation under her leadership approved funds for flight tickets and airport taxis for her teams to travel from Abuja to Kogi State. A perplexing aspect of this revelation was that Kogi State did not have an airport, rendering the expenditure on flight tickets and airport taxis entirely unjustifiable.

President Bola Tinubu has now ordered a comprehensive investigation into the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, led by Betta Edu. Mr. President, you cannot afford to be distracted, especially now that the average Nigerian is going through economic hell, with the poor among us suffering the most.

ASCAB Chair, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), said the minister should stop trying to claim she is innocent, stop taking the people for fools, a common habit among Nigerian leaders known for their open, defensive ways even in the face of the reality of their dishonesty.

In light of these troubling developments surrounding Dr. Betta Edu, the question arises: Who can provide the principled leadership that Nigeria desperately needs? One name stands out as a worthy candidate – Abike Dabiri-Erewa. Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s extensive experience and proven track record in public service make her a compelling choice.

As someone who has tirelessly served as a legislator, a public service journalist, and championed causes such as assisting diaspora Nigerians and empowering women, Abike Dabiri-Erewa possesses the qualifications, dedication, and ethical grounding to lead. Her unwavering commitment to the well-being of Nigerians and her demonstrated ability to navigate complex issues give her an edge in the quest for ethical leadership.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s resilience and her potential as a minister in the context of Nigerian politics, particularly in relation to President Bola Tinubu, highlight her journey from the Nigerian House of Representatives to her role as the chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM). She has always fought for the poor, the weak, and the victimized both at home and abroad, up to the time of writing this.

Furthermore, Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s history of hard work, including her substantial contributions to the campaign for Bola Tinubu during presidential elections, underscores her commitment to the broader vision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its goals for Nigeria’s development.

By recognizing her contributions, President Tinubu has the chance to not only rectify an oversight but to pave the way for a more equitable and harmonious political landscape. The resonance of such recognition transcends mere politics; it embodies the essence of leadership that values and empowers every individual who plays a role in shaping the nation’s destiny.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s journey through Nigerian politics has been marked by unwavering determination and dedication. As a staunch supporter and key player in Bola Tinubu’s political ascent, she displayed unmatched vigor during the campaign, traversing the challenging terrain of Nigerian politics. Her efforts went beyond mere participation; they were infused with an unyielding commitment that played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the campaign.

However, the corridors of power often cast intricate patterns that can obscure the luminosity of even the most dedicated individuals. Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s tireless work during the campaign seemed to have earned her recognition, yet the post-campaign landscape paints a different picture. It is disheartening to witness her being relegated to non-ministerial roles, her influence seemingly dwarfed by the looming figures of powerful men in a male-dominated leadership environment.

It is vital to clarify that this call for Abike Dabiri-Erewa as a replacement for Dr. Betta Edu is not influenced by any private relationships or biases. As a dedicated psychologist committed to the principles of democracy and ethical leadership, the focus is on the broader interests of the Nigerian people.

This advocacy underscores the imperative for leaders who unwaveringly uphold the core values of transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of public resources. In this capacity, the writer stands as a passionate voice for the citizens of Nigeria, fervently urging for governance that prioritizes their well-being and the nation’s progress.

The commitment to ethical leadership transcends personal affiliations, focusing solely on the qualities, capabilities, and track record of individuals best suited to lead Nigeria into a brighter future. Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s credentials and integrity make her a natural choice in this context. Mr. President, her strong suggestion has nothing to do with her ethnic background, which is the same as yours, and I am just a non-Yoruba man of Esan native who, on ethical and democratic grounds, sees the woman who will be one of the few in a male-dominated leadership to take Dr. Edu’s place. Dabiri is a known name and person both at home and abroad compared to Dr. Edu and many currently in leadership. Bring her in now.

In conclusion, Nigeria’s journey towards prosperity and ethical governance rests upon the shoulders of leaders who are unwavering in their commitment to the welfare of the nation and its people. The time has come for Nigeria to look beyond political affiliations and prioritize individuals with the competence and moral standing to lead the nation into a new era of prosperity and accountability. In this quest for ethical leadership, Abike Dabiri-Erewa emerges as a beacon of hope and possibility, ready to lead Nigeria towards a brighter tomorrow.

Nigeria’s leadership must evolve to meet the challenges of the present and the aspirations of the future. Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s appointment as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation can serve as a significant step toward reshaping leadership in Nigeria, emphasizing accountability, transparency, and a commitment to the welfare of all Nigerians. President Bola Tinubu, having campaigned alongside both Edu and Dabiri, is in a unique position to usher in a new era of governance that aligns with the nation’s needs and aspirations. The call for change is not just an option; it is a necessity for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.

Dr. Edu should refrain from placing blame on anyone but herself. Initially sympathetic, this writer and any potential replacement have no connection to her downfall. It is crucial to acknowledge that one’s actions and decisions ultimately shape their destiny, and personal accountability should be at the forefront of any leader’s mindset.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is an American-based police and prison scientist, forensic psychologist, and legal psychologist. He’s a government advisor on forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA and the founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation for Psychological Health. With a significant role in introducing forensic psychology to Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, he’s also a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association. He’s taught at esteemed institutions like Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University, and more, and is currently an online faculty member at Weldios University, Nexus International University, and Walden University. John.Oshodi@mail.waldenu.edu