Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has placed former Humanitarian Affairs Minister Sadiya Umar Farouq on its wanted list over allegations of fraud, misuse of office and diversion of government funds.
The anti-corruption agency made the announcement through a public notice released on Friday. The notice contained her photograph and information about her last known residence in Maitama, Abuja.
According to the EFCC, the former minister is being investigated over alleged financial misconduct linked to funds handled during her time in charge of humanitarian programmes under the federal government.
Before the wanted notice was issued, a High Court in the Federal Capital Territory had already approved a warrant for her arrest after she reportedly failed to appear in court for arraignment.
The case is connected to an ongoing investigation into the alleged misuse of public funds meant for humanitarian projects and social intervention programmes.
Farouq served as a minister in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari between 2019 and 2023.
During her time in office, the ministry oversaw several government programmes, including cash transfer schemes, emergency relief support, school feeding initiatives and assistance for vulnerable Nigerians.
The ministry also handled the distribution of relief materials and welfare packages across the country during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the ministry often faced public criticism over allegations surrounding the management and sharing of intervention funds.
The EFCC said its investigation forms part of a wider probe into activities carried out under the humanitarian affairs ministry during the previous administration.
Reports indicate that the investigation involves alleged financial irregularities totaling about $1.3 million, N746.6 million and other public funds linked to projects supervised by the ministry.
The commission urged anyone with useful information about Farouq’s whereabouts to report to the nearest EFCC office or security agency.
The notice identified her last known address as EN 008, Okpo River, off Agulu Street, Maitama, Abuja.
— EFCC Nigeria (@officialEFCC) May 10, 2026
The case has attracted nationwide attention because the ministry was responsible for programmes aimed at helping low-income families, internally displaced persons and other vulnerable groups across Nigeria.
As of the time of this report, Sadiya Umar Farouq had not publicly reacted to the allegations or the EFCC’s declaration. The agency also did not confirm whether more suspects may be added to the case as investigations continue.