Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq, has shunned her invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The latter is investigating alleged N37.1bn fraud during the time of Umar-Farouq as minister in the immediate past administration of Muhammadu Buhari.
A contractor, James Okwete, is reported to have figured prominently in the said shenanigans.
The EFCC’s investigation has led to the arrest of the National Co-ordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, Halima Shehu.
The latter, who was formerly in charge of the Conditional Cash Transfer Programme during Umar-Farouk’s tenure, has been in detention of the anti-graft agency for the past two days.
In respect of the probe, EFCC officials expected the ex-minister on Wednesday for questioning but were disappointed as she failed to turn up.
OrijoReporter had reported of the invitation letter to her which reads in part, “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, January, 2024. 10:00 am. This request is made pursuant to section 38 (I) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act 2004 & section 21 of Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.”
