The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has revealed that a total sum of N37,170,855,753.44 was allegedly laundered in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs under former minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk. The ongoing probe indicates that the funds were transferred from the Federal Government’s coffers to 38 different bank accounts connected to a contractor, James Okwete.
James Okwete, according to the investigation, reportedly transferred significant amounts to Bureau De Change operators, withdrew cash, purchased luxury cars, and acquired properties in Abuja and Enugu State. Okwete is associated with 53 companies, 47 of which were allegedly used to secure Federal Government contracts amounting to N27,423,824,339.86.
The EFCC document outlines that Okwete received the funds between 2018 and 2023, and he is linked to 143 bank accounts in 12 commercial banks, with 134 of these accounts being corporate accounts tied to different companies.
Sadiya Umar-Farouk, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, who served as the pioneer minister, has been implicated in the scandal. The ministry oversees various agencies, including the National Social Investment Office, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internationally Displaced Persons.
The former minister, appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari in July 2019, has faced previous controversies related to the mismanagement of funds meant for school feeding programs during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020.
The EFCC’s revelations have prompted calls from civil society organizations, including Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), for transparency and accountability in investigating and prosecuting those involved in the alleged corruption.
While reactions from the EFCC spokesperson were neither a confirmation nor denial, the unfolding situation raises concerns about financial impropriety and calls for accountability within the government.
