The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, wanted over alleged abuse of office and diversion of public funds.

In a notice published on its website on Saturday, the agency called on members of the public with useful information about the former minister’s whereabouts to contact any of its offices nationwide through the phone numbers provided.

According to the EFCC, Umar Farouq, 52, is from Zamfara State, with her last known address listed as EN008, Okpo River, off Agulu Street, Maitama, Abuja.

The former minister served under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari from 2019 to 2023.

The EFCC is currently investigating alleged fraud involving about N37 billion linked to the ministry during her tenure.

On April 16, 2026, a Federal Capital Territory High Court issued a warrant for Umar Farouq’s arrest after she and other defendants failed to appear for arraignment.

On April 16, 2026, a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) high court in Apo issued an arrest warrant against Umar Farouq.

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie also granted an order of arrest against Bashir Nura Alkali, a Permanent Secretary in the Ministry.

The order was granted following an application by the EFCC after the defendants failed to appear in court for their scheduled arraignment.

Umar Farouq, Alkali, and one Sani Mohammed are facing a 21-count charge filed by the EFCC bordering on alleged criminal breach of trust and abuse of office.

The anti-graft agency alleged that the defendants misappropriated about $1.3 million and N746.6 million meant for government programmes. (Daily Trust)

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