The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified that former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, did not deliberately avoid their invitation. In a statement made by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, it was revealed that the former minister cited health challenges in a letter explaining her inability to attend the invitation.
“She didn’t shun 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,” explained Oyewale. The commission acknowledged her health challenges and expects her to comply with the invitation as soon as she is able.
Oyewale also addressed the circulating figure of N37.1 billion, stating that it might not accurately represent the extent of misappropriation. He emphasized that the ongoing investigation is still tracing transactions, and the actual amount involved may surpass the currently reported figure.
Furthermore, the EFCC spokesperson mentioned that the National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, Halima Shehu, who was arrested on Tuesday, has been released. She is directed to cooperate with the EFCC for interrogation until the investigation is concluded.
