Former Nigerian Minister Sadiya Farouq Seeks to Vacate Arrest Warrant in Fraud Case

Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development Sadiya Umar Farouq has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to set aside a bench arrest warrant issued in April over alleged misappropriation of about $1.3 million and N746.6 million.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed a 21‑count charge against Farouq, a former permanent secretary Bashir Nura Alkali and Sani Mohammed. Farouq failed to appear at the scheduled arraignment, citing medical treatment in Egypt, while the other two defendants were present. Her counsel argued the application to vacate the warrant was a preliminary matter and should be heard despite the absent arraignment.

Judge Jude Onwuegbuzie allowed the application to be argued and adjourned the matter to June 10 for a ruling, noting the need to verify Farouq’s health status and the credibility of medical reports.