Breaking: EFCC Calls On Buhari’s Ex-Minister For Intensive Questioning

The Minister was summoned for questioning in an ongoing investigation into the alleged laundering of N37,170,855,753.44 during her tenure…CONTINUE READING

The inquiry focuses on funds purportedly channeled through contractor James Okwete. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) instructed Umar-Farouq, a former official in ex-President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, to present herself at its headquarters in Jabbi, Abuja, on Wednesday, January 3, 2024.

A document obtained by The PUNCH outlined the investigation and requested Umar-Farouq’s appearance to elucidate the suspected financial misconduct.

The notice, dated for the specified date and time, cited legal provisions, including Section 38 (I) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004, and Section 21 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.

Despite attempts to reach the ex-minister for comments, her phone appeared switched off. When approached, her former media aide, Nneka Ikem, dismissed the inquiry and terminated communication.

Umar-Farouq, in a previous statement, disclaimed any association with the contractor James Okwete, who is currently in EFCC custody.

In a tweet on her official handle, she stated, “There have been reports linking me to an investigation by the EFCC 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.