Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, has been summoned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for an interview on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. The probe relates to an alleged N37.1bn money laundering case during her tenure, involving a contractor, James Okwete.
The EFCC’s exclusive document revealed the scheduled interview, citing investigations into money laundering within the ministry. Umar-Farouq denies knowledge of Okwete, who is currently held by the anti-graft agency. The former minister expressed intent to seek legal redress against what she called a malicious attack.
The investigation coincides with the probe of three other former ministers for alleged graft amounting to N150bn. Umar-Farouq, along with some former directors-general, may face arrest based on details provided by Okwete, who reportedly made useful statements to investigators.
Documents suggest that N37.1bn was transferred from the federal government to various bank accounts linked to Okwete. The contractor, arrested by the EFCC, is cooperating and implicating the ex-minister and DGs under the ministry. The probe involves transactions, luxury purchases, and government contracts associated with Okwete.
Umar-Farouq served as the pioneer Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development. The investigation focuses on financial misappropriation during her tenure.
