A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has issued a warrant of arrest against former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouk, and former Permanent Secretary, Bashir Nura Alkali, over an alleged fraud involving $1.3 million and ₦746.6 million.
Court Issues Arrest Order
Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie granted the arrest warrant on April 16, 2026, after the defendants failed to appear for their arraignment.
However, the third defendant, Sani Nafiu Mohammed, was present in court during the proceedings.
EFCC Files 21-Count Charge
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed a 21-count charge against the defendants.
The charges include:
- Criminal breach of trust
- Abuse of office
- Fraudulent award of contracts
- Diversion of public funds
The case relates to activities during their tenure at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.
Allegations Over Diverted Funds
According to the prosecution, the defendants handled funds totaling $1.3 million meant to be refunded by Visual ICT Limited.
The funds were linked to excess payments under the National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office (NASSCO) programme.
Prosecutors allege that instead of returning the money, the defendants diverted it for personal use, violating provisions of the Penal Code.
Prosecution Challenges Defendants’ Absence
Prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, told the court that the charges were filed on December 15, 2025.
He said efforts to produce the defendants had failed despite assurances from their legal representatives.
Jacobs also revealed that Farouk had earlier obtained permission to travel to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment but had not returned her passport or provided verified medical reports to justify her continued absence.
Court Rejects Defence Claims
Counsel to the first defendant, Abdul Ibrahim, argued that his client’s absence was due to ill health and urged the court to accept an affidavit.
However, Justice Onwuegbuzie rejected the application, insisting on due process and accountability.
Implications of the Case
The arrest warrant marks a major escalation in the case, as the court seeks to compel the defendants to appear and respond to the charges.
The case has attracted public attention due to:
- The large sums involved
- The sensitivity of the ministry
- Its link to social intervention programmes
Analysts say the outcome could significantly impact public trust and ongoing anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria.
The case underscores growing scrutiny of public officials and the management of government funds.
As proceedings continue, the focus will remain on accountability and the enforcement of anti-corruption laws.
