BREAKING: EFCC to Arrest Buhari’s Minister Over Alleged N37.1bn Fraud

• Sadiya Farouq, a former minister, has refused to honour the invitation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
• Legit.ng understands that the EFCC is probing an alleged N37.1 billion laundered during Farouq's tenure in office through a contractor, James Okwete
• Now, according to a new report, the EFCC is threatening to arrest Farouq who is the wife of Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, a former chief of air staff

Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9-year-experience covering public journalism

FCT, Abuja - A senior official of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has said Sadiya Umar Farouq, former minister of humanitarian affairs might be arrested by operatives of the anti-graft agency within the week.

This is following Farouq's refusal to voluntarily appear before investigators at the EFCC’s headquarters as officially requested by the commission.

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EFFC not backing down on Farouq's probe

The EFCC is probing an alleged N37.1 billion laundered during Farouq's tenure in office through a contractor, James Okwete.

Following an invite by the EFCC, Farouq ignored the agency and was not represented by her counsel, Channels Television reported.

Now, according to The Punch in a report on Thursday morning, January 4, Farouq could be arrested soon.

The EFCC official said:

“Hajia Sadiya didn’t show up at our office today (Wednesday, January 3) for interrogation. In fact, she kept interrogators waiting for hours.

“Meanwhile, our operatives may arrest her this week and bring her in for questioning if she fails to show up tomorrow (Thursday, January 4).”

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Embattled Farouq snubs EFCC

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Farouq shunned an invitation by the EFCC investigating the N37.1 billion allegedly laundered during her tenure in office.

The money was said to have been either mismanaged or stolen through a contractor, James Okwete.

Farouq kept interrogators waiting for over eight hours on Wednesday, January 3, without an official communication to the commission as to why she failed to honour the invitation.

Farouq indicted

Legit.ng also reported that the EFCC reportedly uncovered N37 billion allegedly laundered in the ministry where Farouq served during the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

The money was allegedly transferred from the federal government’s coffers and sent to 38 different bank accounts domiciled in five legacy commercial banks.

Farouq denies link to accused contractor

Meanwhile, Farouq said she does not know Okwete.

She stated that she performed her duties as a minister with integrity and accountability and that she is ready to justify her actions if needed.

Source: Legit.ng