EFCC Declares Ex-Minister Sadiya Umar Farouq Wanted Over Alleged N37bn Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has declared former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, wanted over allegations of abuse of office and diversion of public funds.
In a notice issued on Saturday, the anti-graft agency called on members of the public with useful information about her whereabouts to report to any of its offices across the country.
Farouq, 52, a native of Zamfara State, last resided at EN008, Okpo River, off Agulu Street, Maitama, Abuja. She served as minister under former President Muhammadu Buhari between 2019 and 2023.
The EFCC is probing the alleged mismanagement of about N37 billion linked to activities in the ministry during her time in office.
Earlier, on April 16, 2026, a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory issued a warrant for her arrest after she and other accused persons failed to appear in court for arraignment.
Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie also ordered the arrest of Bashir Nura Alkali, a permanent secretary in the ministry.
Farouq, Alkali and another defendant, Sani Mohammed, are facing a 21-count charge bordering on alleged criminal breach of trust and abuse of office.
According to the EFCC, the defendants allegedly diverted about $1.3 million and N746.6 million earmarked for government intervention programmes.
The commission further alleged that part of the money, which was expected to be returned to the ministry after disbursements under a social investment scheme, was converted for personal use.
