- Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo fails to appear at CCB for N438 million contract investigation, citing prior obligations and national engagements
- CCB officials confirm rescheduling request, emphasizing Tunji-Ojo’s absence and assuring communication for a new appearance date
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, failed to attend the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) inquiry on Tuesday. This investigation revolves around the alleged involvement of a company linked to him in a N438m contract issued by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
Scheduled for 11 a.m., the minister opted for a reschedule, citing a prior formal obligation. Despite our correspondent’s presence at the CCB headquarters, Tunji-Ojo did not make the expected appearance, leaving officials to reveal his absence after a two-hour wait.
Veronica Kato, Head of the Press and Public Relations Department at CCB, confirmed that the minister had written to request a new date due to “pressing national engagements.” Kato assured that the management would arrange a new appearance date.
The controversy stems from the humanitarian affairs ministry allegedly awarding New Planet Projects Limited, reportedly belonging to Tunji-Ojo, a consultant contract worth N438 million. The minister’s connection to the alleged fraud surfaced following the suspension of Dr Betta Edu, the humanitarian affairs minister, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Last week, Tunji-Ojo and his colleagues visited the Aso Villa in Abuja to meet with the president. He denied any correlation between the meeting and the allegations. Despite the CCB’s invitation for an investigation, the minister remains resolute in his denial.
Stay tuned for further updates on the rescheduled appearance as the CCB delves into the intricacies of this controversial N438m contract.