The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has lauded the Federal High Court for ordering the arrest of a former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, and a Permanent Secretary, Bashir Nura Alkali, over alleged fraud involving $1.3 million and N746.6 million.
In a statement on Sunday signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organisation described the development as a major step toward strengthening accountability in Nigeria’s public sector, particularly in agencies responsible for social welfare and intervention programmes.
According to Suraju, the arrest warrant issued by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie followed the failure of the defendants to appear in court to answer to a 21-count charge bordering on alleged breach of trust, abuse of office, and diversion of public funds, as filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The organisation recalled that in January 2024, it had raised concerns and called for a swift probe and thorough investigation into N37.1 billion fraud allegations and financial irregularities linked to the former minister during her tenure.
“HEDA has long advocated for a comprehensive probe into allegations surrounding the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs under the leadership of the former minister, Sadiya Umar-Farouq. This development reinforces the importance of sustained civic vigilance and institutional accountability,” Suraju maintained
The anti-corruption organisation maintained that the alleged diversion of funds meant for vulnerable Nigerians represents a grave breach of public trust and underscores systemic challenges in the management of social intervention programmes.
HEDA, therefore, called on the EFCC and relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure the immediate execution of the court’s order and guarantee that the defendants are brought before the court without further delay. It also urged that the prosecution of the case be conducted diligently, transparently, and without interference.
It further warned that the case must not be allowed to suffer the fate of prolonged trials or be undermined by procedural delays, noting that justice must be both swift and seen to be served.
“HEDA is counting on the judiciary to remain firm and impartial throughout the proceedings, ensuring that the rule of law prevails irrespective of the status of the individuals involved,” it said.
Reaffirming its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance, the group stressed that recovering any misappropriated funds and ensuring justice in this matter will send a strong signal that corruption in public office will no longer be tolerated.
