……..Slams EFCC’s controversial social media post
In response to the shocking revelation, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the immediate prosecution of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, following the uncovering of an alleged N37 billion fraud in the ministry.
HURIWA strongly condemned the actions outlined in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) report, asserting that such corruption severely undermines the purpose of humanitarian efforts aimed at assisting the most vulnerable in society.
According to the press release signed by National Coordinator Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko on Sunday, HURIWA demanded justice and accountability for Umar-Farouk’s alleged role in the financial misappropriation.
“The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently exposed the staggering sum of N37,170,855,753.44 laundered within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, with funds traced to 38 different bank accounts connected to contractor James Okwete.
According to the EFCC, Okwete, purportedly linked to the former minister, diverted significant amounts of the money, including transfers to Bureau De Change Operators, cash withdrawals, luxury car purchases, and the acquisition of high-end property.”.
HURIWA condemned the actions alleged in the EFCC report, stressing that such acts undermine the very essence of humanitarian efforts meant to alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable in society.
The organization emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and a fair trial to determine the guilt or innocence of all involved parties, including Sadiya Umar-Farouk.
Onwubiko stated, “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-Farouk follow previous revelations by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC), 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.”
Furthermore, HURIWA criticized the EFCC for its handling of social media posts related to the former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Allison-Madueke.
The anti-graft agency posted on Instagram, quoting Allison-Madueke on money laundering charges, only to delete the post shortly afterward.
HURIWA questioned the credibility and transparency of the EFCC’s communication strategy, emphasizing the need for consistency and responsibility in disseminating information to the public.
“It is disconcerting to witness the EFCC posting and retracting information on a high-profile case.
“This behavior erodes public confidence in the agency and raises questions about its commitment to transparency and accountability,” remarked Onwubiko.
HURIWA called on the EFCC to operate with the utmost professionalism and adhere to ethical standards in its communication, ensuring that the public receives accurate and timely information.
The organization also urged the EFCC to provide updates on investigations into corruption allegations, fostering trust in the agency’s efforts to combat financial crimes.
In conclusion, HURIWA reiterated its demand for swift and thorough prosecution of Sadiya Umar-Farouk, emphasizing the importance of sending a strong message that corruption within government ministries will not be tolerated.
The organization also called for increased transparency and accountability in the EFCC’s communication practices to maintain public trust in the fight against corruption.
Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko
National Coordinator
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA)
December 24, 2023.
