The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has granted bail to former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, following a rigorous 11-hour interrogation on allegations of corruption related to the handling of N37.1 billion social intervention funds during her tenure.
Farouq, accompanied by her lawyer, Oladipo Okpeseyi, underwent questioning at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, focusing on her association with contractor James Okwete and the disbursement of ₦37,170,855,753.44 into his bank accounts through ministry-affiliated agencies.
During the interrogation in the Operations Room at EFCC headquarters, documents were presented, detailing the movement of funds into accounts linked to Okwete. Farouq has been released on bail and instructed to report daily for further clarifications as the investigation unfolds.
In a parallel development, Okwete’s lawyer, Chukwuemeka Eze, confirmed his client’s release on administrative bail, with a requirement to report to the commission daily.
The ongoing EFCC investigation revolves around the alleged laundering of a staggering N37.1 billion by officials of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development during Umar-Farouq’s leadership as minister. The unfolding developments signal a critical juncture in the pursuit of justice and accountability.
