NEWS
EFCC turns down Ex-Minister, Gives 72-hour Deadline to report self
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have rejected moves by former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq’s move to delay her interrogation
Sadiya Umar Farouq cites health concerns and had sought a three-week extension through her legal representative to attend the EFCC’s investigation.
Nonetheless, the anti-graft agency declined, insisting that she appear at its Abuja headquarters within three days for questioning.
A source disclosed that the ex-minister’s request was conveyed in a letter delivered by her counsel, emphasizing her need for three weeks to address health issues.
However, the EFCC, under the leadership of Ola Olukoyede, asserted that the investigation couldn’t be postponed, setting a three-day deadline for her appearance or risking being declared wanted.
The commission assured a streamlined process for interrogation, stating that individuals could attend and return home on the same day. Additionally, they offered access to medical facilities if needed.
Sadiya Umar-Farouq was invited for her alleged involvement in money laundering amounting to N37,170,855,753.44 within her ministry during her tenure. Despite her denial of any association with the implicated contractor, James Okwete, the EFCC maintained its demand for her appearance.
Confirming the situation, EFCC’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, acknowledged receiving a letter from the ex-minister citing health challenges as the reason for her inability to honor the invitation. He clarified that the EFCC had responded accordingly to her lawyer’s communication.
The commission’s letter to the ex-minister referenced an interview scheduled for January 3, 2024, under legal provisions pertaining to money laundering investigations. Oyewale emphasized that the agency had directed her to comply with the invitation promptly.
In a televised interview, Oyewale reiterated the ex-minister’s submission of reasons for her absence and clarified that her legal representative had briefed the agency on her inability to attend the investigation.
