The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for a thorough investigation and prosecution of all those involved in the N37 billion James Okwete money laundering case in which the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, was indicted.
Chronicle NG previously reported that details of an ongoing EFCC investigation revealed that N37bn was transferred from the Federal Government’s coffers and transmitted to 38 distinct bank accounts domiciled in five legacy commercial banks owned or affiliated with Okwete.
HURIWA‘s position was contained in a statement by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, on Sunday.
The statement read in part, “Corruption in any form, especially within government ministries tasked with providing essential services to the less privileged, is a gross violation of public trust.
“We call on the relevant authorities to expedite the legal process and ensure that those responsible face the consequences of their actions.
“The allegations against Umar-Farouq follows previous revelations by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission, which uncovered N2.67 billion meant for the ministry’s school feeding program in private bank accounts.
“We express deep concern over the recurring incidents of financial mismanagement within ministries meant to address critical societal needs.”
Responding to the indictment, Sadiya Umar-Farouq denied knowing James Okwete, a contractor arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly laundering N37 billion.
She also stated that she served as a minister with a strong sense of duty and that she would defend her activities if called upon to do so.
Calling the indictment spurious, she said, “James Okwete neither worked for nor represented me in any way whatsoever.”
“I remain proud to have served my country as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with every sense of responsibility and would defend my actions, stewardship, and programs during my tenure whenever I am called upon to do so,” Umar-Farouq added.
