Court Retains Arrest Order Against Former Minister Over Alleged Fraud

By Igwe Grace

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has retained the arrest warrant issued against former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, over an alleged fraud involving $1.3 million and N746.7 million.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Farouq alongside Bashir Nura Alkali and Sani Nafiu Mohammed on charges linked to criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, and alleged diversion of public funds.

The court had earlier issued a bench warrant on April 16 after the former minister failed to appear for arraignment.

During Monday’s hearing, EFCC counsel Rotimi Jacobs informed the court that Farouq was absent again without any official explanation. He noted that the second defendant had already submitted himself to the commission following the court’s earlier order and urged the judge to keep the arrest warrant in place.

Counsel to the former minister explained that he was informed late Sunday that his client was currently receiving medical treatment in Egypt and was unable to attend court proceedings.

However, Justice Onwuegbuzie criticised what he described as repeated delays in the case and warned that the court would not tolerate further excuses.

The judge ruled that the arrest warrant against Farouq remains valid and adjourned the matter until June 8, 2026, for arraignment. He also directed that the former minister must appear at the next hearing regardless of her condition.

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