The EFCC is currently investigating a substantial financial scandal, reportedly involving a N37.1 billion fraud during the tenure of Hajia Sadiya Umar-Farouq. The alleged fraud is said to be linked to a contractor named James Okwete…CONTINUE READING

Despite being expected to appear at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, at 10:00 am on January 3, 2024, Umar-Farouq did not show up.

This left investigators waiting for over eight hours without any official communication from her or her representatives explaining the absence.

The EFCC had previously written to Umar-Farouq, requesting her presence for questioning as part of their ongoing investigation.

An EFCC official informed The PUNCH, “Hajia Sadiya didn’t show up at our office today 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.”

However, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), EFCC Spokesperson Dele Oyewale clarified that the former minister had sent a letter citing health challenges as the reason for her inability to attend.

Oyewale stated, “She didn’t shun the EFCC invitation. She actually gave reasons why she couldn’t meet up.

Her lawyer was also at the commission to brief the anti-graft agency of why she couldn’t come or honour the invitation.”

Oyewale assured that the commission had considered her plea and expected her to honor the invitation without further delay.

He emphasized that there might not be a need for her arrest, as she had communicated through her lawyer.

Additionally, Oyewale addressed the reported N37.1 billion figure, stating that it might not be accurate as the investigation is ongoing, and the EFCC is still tracing all relevant transactions.

He suggested that the misappropriated amount could be more than the currently circulated figure.