Alleged N37.1bn Fraud: Former Humanitarian Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk Ignores EFCC Inquiry

Eko Hot Blog reports that the former Humanitarian Minister, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, has disregarded the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) inquiry into the alleged N37.1 billion fraud perpetrated during her tenure.

EFCC is currently investigating a significant financial scandal, allegedly involving a N37.1 billion fraud during her tenure, reportedly linked to a contractor named James Okwete.

Despite being scheduled to report at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, at 10:00 am on January 3, 2024, Umar-Farouq did not show up, leaving the investigators waiting for over eight hours. There was no official communication from her or her representatives explaining the absence.

Sources inside the EFCC noted that the former minister’s non-appearance has raised eyebrows, considering the gravity of the accusations. An anonymous interrogator expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s certain that she’s never going to show up today.”

Journalists gathered at the EFCC headquarters in anticipation of Umar-Farouq’s arrival, highlighting the public interest in the case. The EFCC had invited the former minister to clarify the alleged financial irregularities uncovered in her ministry, as part of a broader investigation into a N37.1bn fraud.

Attempts to contact Umar-Farouq for comments were unsuccessful. Her former media aide, Nneka Ikem, was also evasive when approached for clarification.

Umar-Farouq has publicly denied any association with Okwete, the contractor implicated in the scandal. In a tweet, she refuted the allegations, stating, “James Okwete neither worked for nor represented me in any way whatsoever.”

The EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, declined to comment on the matter.

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