EFCC invite ex-humanitarian minister Sadiya Farouq over alleged N37bn fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has invited the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, for questioning regarding an ongoing investigation into an alleged money laundering case.
The amount in question, according to a report by PUNCH on Sunday is said to be N37,170,855,753.44 and it is alleged that it was laundered during her tenure through a contractor named James Okwete.
According to the report, the former minister has been requested to appear before the EFCC interrogators at the headquarters located in Jabbi, Abuja on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, to explain the alleged fraud.
“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.
“In view of the above, you are requested to kindly report for an interview with the undersigned. Scheduled as follows: Wednesday, 3rd of January, 2024. Time: 10am. This request is made pursuant to Section 38 (I) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004 & Section 21 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.”
Umar Farouq refuted claims last week that she was aware of or involved in the alleged contract scam with Okwete.
The statement posted on her X account reads: “There have been a number of reports linking me to a purported investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission into the activities of one James Okwete, someone completely unknown to me.
“James Okwete neither worked for, nor represented me in any way whatsoever. The linkages and associations to my person are spurious. While I resist the urge to engage in any media trial whatsoever, I have however contacted my legal team to explore possible options to seek redress on the malicious attack on my person.
“I remain proud to have served my country as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with every sense of responsibility and would defend my actions, stewardship and programmes during my tenure whenever I am called upon to do so.”
