A Federal Capital Territory High Court has ordered the arrest of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Farouq, and a Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali, over their failure to appear in court.
The order was issued by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie after both officials failed to attend their scheduled arraignment in a case involving alleged fraud totalling $1.3 million and N746.6 million.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had brought a 21-count charge against the defendants, accusing them of criminal breach of trust, abuse of office, contract irregularities, and diversion of public funds.
According to the prosecution, the funds in question were allegedly mismanaged and diverted during their time in office. The commission further claimed that $1.3 million meant to be refunded by a private firm, linked to payments under a social intervention programme, was unlawfully converted.
During proceedings, the EFCC’s counsel informed the court that despite assurances from their legal representatives, the two defendants had repeatedly failed to present themselves for arraignment.
It was also revealed that the former minister had travelled abroad in 2024 for medical treatment after being granted permission, but had yet to return her travel documents or submit a medical report before charges were filed.
In response, the defence counsel maintained that her absence was due to health-related issues.
Following the application by the prosecution, the court granted the request for a warrant of arrest and adjourned the case to May 18 for arraignment.
