The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called upon the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, to provide answers in relation to an ongoing investigation into the alleged laundering of N37,170,855,753.44 during her tenure.
NN News Media gathered that the funds are suspected to have been funneled through a contractor, James Okwete.
According to a document obtained by The PUNCH, the anti-graft agency has instructed Umar-Farouq, who served under the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, to appear for questioning at its headquarters in Jabbi, Abuja, on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. The former minister is expected to clarify her involvement in the purported financial irregularities.
Part of the document read, “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: 10 am. 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.”
Attempts to reach Umar-Farouq for comments were unsuccessful as her phone was switched off. Even her former media aide, Nneka Ikem, declined to comment and switched off her phone when contacted about the situation.
Umar-Farouq had previously distanced herself from James Okwete, the contractor in question, whom the EFCC is currently holding. In a tweet on her official handle, she stated, “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 for the malicious attack on my person.”
The former minister expressed her commitment to defending her actions, stewardship, and programs during her tenure when called upon to do so.
