EFCC declares Ex-Minister Sadiya Umar Farouq wanted over alleged N37bn fraud scandal
Former Humanitarian Affairs Minister Sadiya Umar Farouq
Nigeria’s anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has declared former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, wanted over alleged fraud and diversion of public funds.
The development has sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape, especially as the former minister served under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari between 2019 and 2023. The EFCC accused Farouq of alleged criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, and misappropriation of funds linked to a major corruption investigation involving the humanitarian affairs ministry.
The anti-corruption agency announced the wanted notice on Friday, intensifying scrutiny around one of the most controversial ministries under the previous administration.
EFCC Issues Wanted Notice Against Sadiya Umar Farouq
According to the EFCC, Sadiya Umar Farouq, 52, is being investigated over alleged involvement in the diversion of public funds and abuse of office.
The commission stated that the former minister was last seen in Maitama, Abuja, and urged Nigerians with useful information regarding her whereabouts to contact the agency or the nearest security authorities.
In its official statement, the EFCC said the former minister is wanted in connection with an alleged case involving “criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, and diversion of public funds.”
The announcement follows increasing pressure on the anti-graft agency to intensify investigations into alleged financial irregularities within government ministries and agencies.
N37 Billion Fraud Allegations Rock Humanitarian Ministry
The case against Sadiya Umar Farouq is reportedly linked to an alleged N37 billion fraud investigation involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
Reports indicate that the EFCC had earlier filed a 21-count charge connected to the alleged mismanagement of public resources. The agency reportedly accused some officials of diverting funds meant for social intervention programmes targeted at vulnerable Nigerians.
According to details emerging from the investigation, the EFCC alleged that approximately $1.3 million and over N746 million were misappropriated.
Investigators claimed some of the funds were expected to be returned to the ministry after programme payments but were allegedly diverted for personal use instead.
The humanitarian ministry had previously come under public criticism over transparency concerns surrounding social investment and welfare programmes introduced during the Buhari administration.
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Court Had Earlier Issued Arrest Warrant
Before the latest wanted declaration, a Federal High Court in Abuja had reportedly issued an arrest warrant against Sadiya Umar Farouq and a senior ministry official, Nura Alkali.
The warrant was said to have been granted after both defendants allegedly failed to appear in court for arraignment.
The EFCC’s move to formally declare the former minister wanted now represents a significant escalation in the ongoing case.
Legal analysts say the development could trigger intensified political debate over accountability and corruption investigations involving former public office holders.
Public Reactions Trail EFCC Announcement
The news quickly generated reactions across social media, with many Nigerians calling for transparency and due process in the investigation.
While some citizens praised the EFCC for pursuing accountability regardless of political status, others stressed the importance of ensuring the former minister receives fair legal treatment.
Political observers also noted that the case may further shape public discourse around governance, anti-corruption reforms, and the management of intervention funds in Nigeria.
The humanitarian affairs ministry had overseen several high-profile welfare programmes, including conditional cash transfers and emergency relief initiatives during the COVID-19 period.
EFCC Intensifies Anti-Corruption Campaign
The declaration of Sadiya Umar Farouq as wanted highlights the EFCC’s continued focus on corruption-related investigations involving former government officials.
In recent months, the anti-graft agency has increased enforcement actions against politically exposed persons and former public office holders accused of financial misconduct.
Analysts believe the outcome of the case could become a major test of Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions and judicial process.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Sadiya Umar Farouq nor her legal representatives had publicly responded to the EFCC’s latest announcement.
The commission has advised anyone with information concerning her location to report to any EFCC office nationwide or contact security authorities.
FAQ
Who is Sadiya Umar Farouq?
is a Nigerian politician who served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development under former President from 2019 to 2023.
Why did the EFCC declare Sadiya Umar Farouq wanted?
The EFCC declared her wanted over allegations involving criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, and diversion of public funds connected to an ongoing fraud investigation.
What is the alleged fraud case against Sadiya Umar Farouq?
The investigation reportedly involves alleged misappropriation of funds linked to social intervention programmes managed by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. The EFCC is probing an alleged N37 billion fraud case.
Has Sadiya Umar Farouq been arrested?
As of the latest reports, the EFCC has declared her wanted, but there has been no official confirmation of her arrest.
What ministry did Sadiya Umar Farouq oversee?
She headed the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development during the Buhari administration.
What is the EFCC?
is Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency responsible for investigating financial crimes, fraud, money laundering, and corruption-related offences.
What funds are involved in the investigation?
According to reports, the EFCC alleged that approximately $1.3 million and N746 million linked to government intervention programmes were diverted.
What happens after someone is declared wanted by EFCC?
When the EFCC declares a person wanted, security agencies and the public are encouraged to provide information about the individual’s whereabouts to assist investigations and possible prosecution.
What is abuse of office?
Abuse of office refers to the improper use of public authority or official position for personal gain or unlawful advantage.
Could the case affect Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts?
Yes. Political analysts believe the case could become a major test of Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption enforcement involving former public officials.