Court Orders Arrest of Ex-Minister, Perm Sec Over Alleged Fraud
A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has issued arrest warrants for former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, and the ministry’s former Permanent Secretary, Bashir Nura Alkali, after both failed to appear for proceedings in an alleged fraud case.
The court, presided over by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie, gave the order on Thursday following their absence despite being aware of the hearing.
The case involves allegations of mismanagement and diversion of over $1.3 million and more than ₦746 million meant for humanitarian programmes. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed a 21-count charge against the two officials and a third defendant, Sani Nafiu Mohammed, who was present in court.
Their absence shifted the focus of the session to issues of accountability and compliance with court orders. Prosecutors told the court that both defendants had previously been granted bail but failed to meet conditions requiring them to report as directed.
The prosecution also raised concerns over travel disclosures, noting that the former minister had been granted permission to travel abroad for medical reasons and was released her passport. However, she has yet to return the document or submit any medical report tied to the trip.
An attempt by her legal team to justify her absence on health grounds was dismissed, with the court rejecting documents presented in her defence.
With both defendants absent despite prior notice, the court moved to compel their appearance through arrest, reinforcing the judiciary’s stance on accountability in high-profile corruption cases.
Blessing Anolaba
Editorial & Creative Correspondent
A storyteller and journalist passionate about telling stories for policy change and impact.
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