Massive Fraud Unearthed in Nigeria’s Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs – EFCC Implicates Buhari’s Minister, Contractor

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has revealed a staggering N37.17 billion fraud allegedly perpetrated within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development. Former Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk, a close associate of President Buhari, and contractor James Okwete are now under intense scrutiny.

According to exclusive information obtained by the Punch, the funds were siphoned from the Federal Government’s accounts and funneled into 38 different bank accounts across five legacy commercial banks associated with Okwete. Investigations expose a web of transactions, including the transfer of N6.75 billion to Bureau De Change Operators, N540 million withdrawn in cash, N288.35 million spent on luxury cars, and N2.20 billion used to acquire opulent properties in Abuja and Enugu.

Okwete, linked to 53 companies, allegedly secured Federal Government contracts worth N27.42 billion through 47 of these companies. Disturbingly, he maintained connections with 143 bank accounts across 12 commercial banks.

Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk, appointed by President Buhari in 2019, served as the pioneer Minister of Humanitarian Affairs. The ministry oversees eight agencies, including the National Social Investment Office and the National Commission for Refugees.

This revelation comes in the wake of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission’s discovery of N2.67 billion intended for the ministry’s school feeding program diverted to private bank accounts. Despite calls for transparency by Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), the implicated minister has yet to disclose the names of those involved.

Reacting to the unfolding scandal, the EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, remained tight-lipped.

In response, human rights lawyer Tolu Babaleye called for a thorough probe of the Buhari administration, highlighting unprecedented corruption. Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa Chairman, Ezenwa Nwagwu, urged a comprehensive investigation of all previous administrations, emphasizing the need for justice.

However, legal expert Jiti Ogunye highlighted the legal constraints surrounding probing entire administrations, emphasizing the focus on individuals engaged in corrupt practices.

As the investigation unfolds, Nigerians await further developments in what is becoming a significant corruption scandal within the heart of the government.