A Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Apo issued a warrant for the arrest of former Minister Sadiya Umar Farouq.
Moreover, the decision came after repeated failures by the defendants to appear in court.
In addition, a Permanent Secretary, Bashir Nura Alkali, was also affected.
The order was given by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
According to the EFCC, the charges involve alleged abuse of office and diversion of public funds. The total amount in question runs into millions of dollars and naira.
During the court session, only the third defendant, Sani Nafiu Mohammed, was present. However, the absence of the other defendants raised serious concerns.
Prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), explained the situation to the court. He stated, “We could not arraign them on 15 December, because we could not produce them but their lawyers in court promised that they would produce the defendants but we didn’t see them until your lordship made an order for the state service.”
Furthermore, he confirmed that efforts had been made to serve the defendants. Despite this, they failed to appear as required.
Jacobs also raised concerns about the former minister’s travel history. He said, “My lord, since that passport was released to her, she has not returned the passport to the Commission. We do not have the medical report in Saudi Arabia till date.”
Meanwhile, the defense claimed that her absence was due to health reasons. However, the court rejected the affidavit presented by her legal team.
In addition, the charges detail serious allegations of financial misconduct. One count involves the handling of funds meant for government use.
The charge reads, “That you Sadiya Umar Farouq, While being Minister of Humanitarian Affairs… entrusted with certain property to wit, an aggregate sum of $1,300,000.00… committed criminal breach of trust.”
Meanwhile, the court’s decision is seen as a strong message against non-compliance. It reinforces the importance of appearing before the law.
Moreover, the case highlights ongoing efforts to tackle corruption at high levels. Authorities appear determined to pursue justice regardless of status.
However, the outcome of the case will depend on the next legal steps. The arrest order is expected to compel the defendants to appear.
