“Sadiya Umar-Farouq summoned by EFCC for questioning amid money laundering probe”
Following her recent declaration of readiness to defend her actions as the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq has been invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for interrogation.
Reports disclose that the invitation is linked to an ongoing investigation into the alleged laundering of N37,170,855,753.44 during her tenure, purportedly involving contractor James Okwete.
A document revealed that Umar-Farouq was called to appear before investigators at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, to provide clarifications on the alleged fraudulent activities.
READ ALSO: N37.1 billion Fraud: Ex-Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouq distances self from engineer under probe
Quoting from the document, “The commission is investigating a case of money laundering involving the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development during your time as minister.
“In view of the above, you are requested to kindly report for an interview with the undersigned. Scheduled as follows: Wednesday, 3rd of January, 2024. Time: 10am. This request is made pursuant to Section 38 (I) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004 & Section 21 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.”
Umar-Farouq had previously disclaimed any acquaintance with the contractor James Okwete, who is currently in custody of the anti-graft agency.
In response to media reports, the former minister took to social media, stating, “There have been a number of reports linking me to a purported investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission into the activities of one James Okwete, someone completely unknown to me.
“James Okwete neither worked for, nor represented me in any way whatsoever. The linkages and associations to my person are spurious. While I resist the urge to engage in any media trial whatsoever, I have however contacted my legal team to explore possible options to seek redress on the malicious attack on my person.
“I remain proud to have served my country as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with every sense of responsibility and would defend my actions, stewardship and programmes during my tenure whenever I am called upon to do so.”
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