EFCC declares ex-Minister Sadiya Umar Farouq wanted over alleged fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, wanted over allegations of abuse of office and diversion of public funds.

The anti-graft agency made the declaration following ongoing investigations into alleged financial misconduct linked to funds running into millions of naira and foreign currency during her tenure in office.

Farouq, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari between 2019 and 2023, is accused alongside other officials of failing to appear before the court to answer a 21-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust, abuse of office, fraudulent contract awards and alleged diversion of public funds.

A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja had earlier issued a bench warrant for her arrest after she reportedly failed to appear for arraignment despite being served with charges. 

The EFCC alleges that the case involves about $1.3 million and ₦746.6 million, funds said to be linked to social intervention programmes under the ministry. 

The commission has urged members of the public with useful information about her whereabouts to report to its offices.