By Our Correspondent

National News – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has declared former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, wanted over alleged criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, and diversion of public funds.

The anti-graft agency announced the development on Saturday, stating that the former minister is being sought in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct during her time in office.

According to the EFCC, Farouq, a former cabinet member under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, was declared wanted after efforts to secure her appearance for questioning reportedly failed.

The commission identified her as a 52-year-old indigene of Zamfara State and released details of her last known address in Maitama, Abuja.

The EFCC said the investigation focuses on allegations involving conspiracy, abuse of office, and the diversion of government funds linked to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

The agency urged Nigerians with useful information about her whereabouts to contact any of its offices across the country or report to the nearest police station.

The commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the wanted declaration in an official notice published by the agency.

The notice also provided contact channels, including telephone and email details, for members of the public willing to assist investigators.

Farouq served as minister between 2019 and 2023 and oversaw several federal social intervention programmes during her tenure.

The ministry was responsible for humanitarian support, disaster response, and poverty alleviation initiatives across Nigeria.

The latest development has generated reactions within political and anti-corruption circles, with many observers describing the case as another major test of Nigeria’s anti-corruption campaign.

Analysts say the EFCC’s move signals intensified efforts to investigate alleged misuse of public funds by former public office holders.