Former Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouq Denies Link to Contractor Accused of N37bn Fraud

• Nigerian former minister Hajia Sadiya Umar-Farouq is accused of being involved in a big money scam involving a man named James Okwete
• Hajia Sadiya says she does not know James Okwete and did nothing wrong, saying she can prove that she was honest and responsible when she was in service
• James Okwete is currently in EFCC detention after it was found that he took N37bn and hid it in 38 bank accounts

Hajia Sadiya Umar-Farouq, once the pioneer Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, has said she does not know James Okwete, a contractor facing charges of laundering N37bn by the EFCC.

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.

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Buhari’s minister breaks silence over alleged N37 billion fraud, Okwete’s arrest

In a message she posted on her X handle (formerly Twitter) @Sadiya_farouq, she denied any relations with the suspect Okwete.

Legit.ng has earlier reported the EFCC probe that uncovered N37bn that was diverted from the Federal Government’s funds and distributed to 38 bank accounts in five major commercial banks that were either owned by or linked to Okwete.

Distancing herself from what the former minister called an attack on her personality, she said:

“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."

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EFCC probes Buhari’s top ministers over N187 billion fraud, makes fresh arrest

She emphatically stressed that she is proud of her years of service to her fatherland.

She said:

"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"

EFCC releases ex-power minister, Olu Agunloye

In another report by Legit.ng, the EFCC granted bail to former power and steel minister Olu Agunloye after a week in detainment.

EFCC spokesperson Oyewale confirmed Agunloye’s release on Wednesday, December 20.

Recall that Agunloye was declared wanted by the EFCC weeks ago over alleged involvement in a $6 billion fraud linked to the Mambilla hydropower project.

Source: Legit.ng