Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, has been declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over alleged fraud involving $1.3 million and N746.6 million.
The anti-graft agency secured a warrant for her arrest after she and former permanent secretary Bashir Nura Alkali failed to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja for arraignment.
According to the EFCC, the defendants are facing a 21-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust, abuse of office, fraudulent award of contracts and diversion of public funds linked to programmes under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
The commission alleged that part of the funds involved in the case included $1.3 million said to have been refunded by a contractor connected to the National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office (NASSCO).
Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie issued the bench warrant after prosecution counsel informed the court that the former minister and the permanent secretary could not be served despite efforts by the commission.
The case is the latest development in a broader investigation into alleged financial irregularities surrounding social intervention funds managed during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
