Former humanitarian minister, Farouq, distances self from contractor investigated by EFCC

Former humanitarian affairs minister, Sadiya Umar Farouq, has distanced herself from James Okwete, a contractor who was arrested by the EFCC for allegedly laundering N37 billion.

Okwete is suspected to be involved in a massive corruption scandal in the ministry of humanitarian affairs, which is under investigation by the anti-graft agency.

The contractor’s arrest came at the same time as the reported probe of three former ministers who served under ex-president Muhammadu Buhari. They are accused of embezzling N150 billion.

According to reports, Okwete used 53 companies to siphon public funds. He allegedly transferred N6.7 billion to forex dealers, withdrew N540 million in cash, bought luxury cars worth N288 million, and acquired expensive properties in Abuja and Enugu worth N2.2 billion.

He also allegedly secured federal government contracts worth N27.4 billion using 47 companies.

In a statement, Umar Farouq denied any connection with Okwete, saying he is “completely unknown to her”.

She said: “There have been a number of reports linking me to a purported investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) 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.”