The reason why ex-minister Sadiya failed to honor EFCC's invitation over an alleged 37 billion fraud
Explore in-depth analysis and updates on the ongoing investigation into the alleged 37 billion fraud involving ex-minister Sadiya, and discover why she failed to honor the EFCC's invitation. Stay informed with reliable information and scrutinize the multifaceted dimensions of this significant legal case.
Sadiya Umar-Farouq, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, has requested a postponement of her scheduled meeting with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The request was due to health issues. This meeting was part of an ongoing investigation into approximately N37,170,855,753.44 purportedly laundered during her term in office. The alleged money laundering was carried out via a contractor named James Okwete.
Previously, The PUNCH reported that Umar-Farouq was under threat of arrest by EFCC officials for failing to attend the scheduled meeting at the EFCC Headquarters. Umar-Farouq, however, has engaged a legal representative to establish communication with the commission, appealing for an extension and informing them of her health challenges.
The EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, confirmed that Umar-Farouq sent a letter requesting additional time due to health issues and delegated her lawyer to interact with the interrogators. Although the commission expects her to report promptly, the investigation is still in progress, and a complete account of all transactions is not yet available.
Previously, Umar-Farouq was requested to attend a meeting at the EFCC Headquarters in Abuja on January 3, 2024, to discuss the alleged substantial fraud during her term. Our correspondent affirmed that Umar-Farouq did not make an appearance for questioning at the EFCC office.
A reliable EFCC source indicated that if Umar-Farouq does not willingly present herself for questioning at the EFCC Headquarters, she may be arrested within the week.
Our previous report stated that the EFCC invited the former Minister to address questions related to an ongoing investigation into an alleged £37.1bn fraud in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. James Okwete, a contractor, was arrested in connection to this investigation, allegedly offering vital information implicating Umar-Farouq and a former director-general of the ministry.
