Court Denies Sadiya Farouq's Bid to Vacate Arrest Warrant

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has dismissed the application filed by former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, to vacate an arrest warrant issued against her in connection with an alleged $1.3 million fraud case. Justice Jude Onwuegbuzi ruled that Farouq's failure to appear in court was without valid reason, thus empowering the court to issue a bench warrant for her arrest.

The case involves allegations of criminal conspiracy and abuse of office concerning public funds. Farouq is expected to stand trial alongside Bashir Nura, Alkali Sani Nafiu, and others implicated in the fraud.

The court noted that a medical report presented as justification for her absence did not adequately explain her failure to appear. Prosecuting counsel Rotimi Jacob urged the court to enforce an earlier undertaking made by Farouq's counsel, Ibrahim, to produce her in court.

The matter has been adjourned to July 2, 2026, for arraignment.