The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has welcomed a Federal High Court order directing the arrest of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, over alleged financial misconduct, urging authorities to ensure swift and transparent prosecution.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the anti-corruption group described the court’s decision as a significant step toward reinforcing accountability in Nigeria’s public sector, particularly within agencies tasked with managing social intervention programmes.
The arrest warrant, issued by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie, also targets a Permanent Secretary, Bashir Nura Alkali. The order followed their failure to appear in court to answer a 21-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), bordering on alleged breach of trust, abuse of office, and diversion of public funds amounting to $1.3 million and N746.6 million.
HEDA recalled that it had, in January 2024, called for a thorough probe into alleged financial irregularities totaling N37.1 billion linked to the former minister during her tenure. The organisation noted that the latest development validates its longstanding advocacy for accountability.
Suraju stressed that the alleged diversion of funds meant for vulnerable Nigerians represents a serious violation of public trust and highlights systemic weaknesses in the management of humanitarian programmes.
The group called on the EFCC and other relevant agencies to execute the arrest order promptly and ensure that the defendants are brought before the court without delay. It also urged that the prosecution be conducted diligently and free from interference.
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Warning against prolonged legal delays, HEDA emphasised that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. It urged the judiciary to remain impartial and resolute throughout the proceedings.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and good governance, HEDA maintained that recovering any misappropriated funds and securing justice in the case would send a strong signal that corruption in public office will not be tolerated.
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