Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Ex-Minister Over Fraud

The Federal Capital Territory High Court, presided over by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzi, has ordered the immediate arrest of Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, due to her failure to appear for arraignment in a ₦1.3 billion fraud case. The court issued a bench warrant on Thursday after Farouq and former Permanent Secretary Bashir Nura Alkali did not present themselves for the scheduled court proceedings.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought 21 counts of corruption against them, alleging a massive financial scandal involving the diversion of ₦1.3 billion intended for the National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office. The funds were meant for valid beneficiaries but were reportedly misappropriated.

Despite previous assurances from Farouq's legal team regarding her health issues, Justice Onwuegbuzi rejected the explanations and adjourned the case until May 18, 2026, for formal arraignment.