EFCC Declares Former Humanitarian Affairs Minister Sadiya Farouq Wanted Over Alleged Fraud

Anti-graft agency intensifies investigation into alleged diversion of public funds as court had earlier issued arrest warrant.

📚 Get "Spend Less, Save More" — Click here

By Angela Udende / ABUJA — May 10, 2026

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, wanted over allegations of abuse of office and diversion of public funds.

The announcement was contained in an official notice published on the EFCC website on Saturday, as the agency intensified efforts to track the whereabouts of the former minister.

EFCC Issues Public Wanted Notice

According to the commission, Farouq, 52, is an indigene of Zamfara State, with her last known address listed as EN008, Okpo River, off Agulu Street, Maitama, Abuja.

The EFCC appealed to members of the public with useful information regarding her whereabouts to contact its offices or designated hotlines provided in the notice.

The agency stated that the declaration forms part of ongoing investigations into alleged financial misconduct during her time in office.

Background to Investigation

Farouq served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development after her appointment in July 2019 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, becoming one of the youngest members of the federal cabinet at the time.

📚 Get "Spend Less, Save More" — Click here

She oversaw key federal social intervention programmes during her tenure.

Court Previously Issued Arrest Warrant

The development follows an earlier order by a Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Apo, Abuja, which issued an arrest warrant against the former minister on April 16, 2026.

The court order is believed to be connected to ongoing proceedings linked to allegations of financial irregularities.

EFCC Intensifies Anti-Corruption Drive

The EFCC has recently stepped up enforcement actions against former public officials as part of its broader anti-corruption mandate.

The commission maintains that individuals under investigation are entitled to due process and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law once apprehended.

With the EFCC’s public declaration and an existing court warrant, efforts to locate Sadiya Umar Farouq are expected to intensify in the coming days as investigations into alleged misuse of public funds continue.