EFCC Interrogates Sadiya Over Alleged N37.1 Billion Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to interrogate the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, in connection to an alleged N37.1 billion fraud. A reliable source from within the EFCC confirmed this development yesterday, shedding light on the ongoing probe into Umar-Farouk’s tenure as minister During President Buhari’s Administration.
Sadiya Umar-Farouk held the ministerial position under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, serving from August 2019 until May 29, 2023. The scrutiny into her activities began last week when she was summoned by the anti-graft agency, with a particular focus on the suspected laundering of N37.1 billion during her tenure, purportedly facilitated through a contractor named James Okwete.
Despite the official invitation, the former minister has yet to appear before EFCC interrogators at their headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, at the scheduled time of 10:00 am, as disclosed by the anonymous source within the EFCC.
The source further revealed that several other officials who served alongside Umar-Farouk have also been called upon to provide insights into the ministry’s operations during the past four years. The EFCC is delving into the affairs of the ministry, aiming to unravel any potential irregularities or financial misconduct that may have occurred under her leadership.
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The unfolding events also coincide with the suspension of Halima Shehu, the Chief Executive Officer and National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), by President Bola Tinubu. President Tinubu appointed Akindele Egbuwalo, the National N-Power Program Manager, as the acting head of NSIPA pending an investigation into Shehu’s activities.
The NSIPA, responsible for managing critical programs like N-Power and Conditional Cash Transfer, falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. While the exact reasons for Shehu’s suspension remain unclear, it is evident that she, too, faces inquiries, having been reportedly grilled by the EFCC on Tuesday.
As these developments unfold, the nation watches closely, anticipating the outcomes of the investigations into the alleged financial discrepancies and improprieties during Sadiya Umar-Farouk’s tenure and the subsequent ripple effects within the National Social Investment Programme Agency.
At VOTP News we commend the Government and it’s agencies for investigations into Alledged fraud by public office holders. We also plead with the Tinubu’s Administration not to pick and choose who would stand punishment for fraud and related offences, everyone involved should be brought to book.
EFCC Interrogates Sadiya Over Alleged N37.1 Billion Fraud
