In a significant development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has summoned the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, in connection with an ongoing investigation into the alleged laundering of N37,170,855,753.44 under her tenure.
The exclusive document obtained by our correspondent indicates that Umar-Farouq is required to appear before EFCC interrogators at the agency’s headquarters in Jabbi, Abuja, on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. The alleged fraud involves funds channeled through contractor James Okwete.
The document states, “The commission is investigating a case of money laundering involving the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development during your time as minister.”
Umar-Farouq has been asked to clarify her involvement in the matter pursuant to Section 38 (1) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004, and Section 21 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.
The former minister, however, could not be reached for comments, and her former media aide, Nneka Ikem, dismissed the inquiry before turning off her phone.
In response to previous allegations, Umar-Farouq had denied any connection with contractor James Okwete, currently held by the EFCC. The former minister reiterated her lack of knowledge about Okwete, despite his alleged involvement in money laundering activities during her tenure.
The EFCC has not provided comments on the matter, as confirmed by the spokesperson, Dele Oyewale.
Sources reveal that the ongoing investigation might lead to the arrest of Umar-Farouq and some former directors-general under the ministry, based on information provided by contractor Okwete. The alleged misappropriation involves the transfer of N37.1 billion from the Federal Government’s accounts to various bank accounts associated with Okwete.
Okwete, cooperating with investigators, has reportedly provided crucial details, linking Umar-Farouq and other officials to the financial fraud. The former minister had previously sought legal recourse against what she termed a “malicious attack” on her reputation.
The unfolding scandal coincides with similar probes into three other former ministers under the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, collectively accused of involvement in graft amounting to N150 billion.
As investigations continue, the EFCC is expected to shed more light on the alleged financial misconduct and any subsequent actions against those implicated.