The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its investigation of financial irregularities within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, successfully recovering over ₦30 billion.
The funds, totaling ₦37,170,855,753.44, were allegedly diverted during the tenure of the former minister, Sadiya Umar-Farouk.
Sources within the anti-graft agency revealed that the recovery process involved placing liens on the bank accounts associated with Umar-Farouk and a contractor named James Okwete. Both individuals are currently undergoing intense interrogation by EFCC investigators.
In addition to the substantial recovery, the EFCC uncovered an additional ₦500 million linked to fraudulent activities associated with Betta Edu, the successor to Umar-Farouk.
Edu, recently suspended by the President, is reportedly entangled in an alleged ₦17 billion fraud.
Simultaneously, the suspended Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), Halima Shehu, is under scrutiny for an alleged ₦44 billion fraud.
On a broader scale, the EFCC reported a total recovery of ₦70,556,658,370.50 between October 2023 and January 19, 2024. This comprehensive effort reflects the agency’s dedication to combating financial crimes and ensuring accountability.
While the investigations continue, the EFCC emphasized its focus on addressing corruption cases involving high-profile public officials, with the total amount involved reaching around ₦130.1 billion as of January 31, 2024.
Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, highlighted the significance of the convictions secured during this period, particularly in cybercrime-related cases. The anti-graft agency remains resolute in its pursuit of justice amid financial malfeasance.
