Court Orders Arrest of Ex-Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouq

On April 16, 2026, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja issued an arrest warrant for Sadiya Umar-Farouq, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, due to allegations of fraud amounting to $1.3 million and N746 million. Justice Jude Onwuegbuzi presided over the case, which was brought forth by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The allegations include breach of trust and abuse of office related to the fraudulent award of contracts and misappropriation of public funds intended for the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. Umar-Farouq's permanent secretary, Bashir Nura Alkali, is also implicated.

The charges were filed on December 15, 2025. The court was informed that Umar-Farouq failed to appear for her arraignment, citing medical reasons for her absence.

The EFCC sought to amend its motion for a bench warrant against her, which the court granted, and the matter has been adjourned until May 18, 2026, for further proceedings.