EFCC Declares Ex-Minister Sadiya Farouq Wanted for Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Sadiya Umar Farouq, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, wanted for alleged criminal conspiracy and abuse of office involving the mismanagement of public funds. The EFCC's notice, posted on their website on Saturday, identifies Farouq, a 52-year-old indigene of Zamfara State, with her last known address in Maitama, Abuja.

A warrant for her arrest was issued on April 16, 2023, by trial judge Jude Onwuegbuzi, following her failure to appear in court. The EFCC alleges that Farouq, alongside Bashir Nura Alkali, the permanent secretary of the ministry, mismanaged approximately $1.3 million (N746.6 million) intended for the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.

The commission has urged the public to provide information regarding Farouq's whereabouts.