Sadiya Umar-Farouk, immediate past Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development has vehemently denied any involvement in an alleged money laundering case linking her to contractor, James Okwete, stating that she is proud to have served as a Minister.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is reportedly investigating Umar-Farouk in connection with a total sum of N37,170,855,753.44 allegedly laundered in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs during her tenure.
In a statement posted on her Twitter handle, Umar-Farouk refuted any business dealings with James Okwete, stating that he was “completely unknown” to her.
Despite the ongoing investigation, the former minister expressed pride in her actions during her tenure and asserted her commitment to defending her stewardship whenever called upon.
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Umar-Farouk stated, “There have been a number of reports linking me to a purported investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (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.
“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,” she added.
As the pioneer Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in July 2019, Umar-Farouk’s tenure has come under scrutiny with the recent EFCC revelations.
The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, which she led, oversees eight agencies, including the National Social Investment Office and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internationally Displaced Persons.