A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, and a Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali, over their alleged involvement in a multi-million-dollar fraud case.
The warrant was granted on Thursday by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie after both defendants failed to appear in court for their scheduled arraignment. Only the third defendant, Sani Nafiu Mohammed, was present.
The trio is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a 21-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust, abuse of office, fraudulent contract awards, and diversion of public funds totaling about $1.3 million and ₦746.6 million.
According to the prosecution, Farouq and Alkali allegedly diverted funds meant to be refunded to the ministry by a contractor involved in the National Social Safety Net programme. The funds were reportedly excess payments linked to beneficiary validation under the scheme.
Lead prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, told the court that despite being granted administrative bail and duly served with charges, the two defendants failed to honour court proceedings.
He further disclosed that Farouq had earlier travelled to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment after her passport was released by authorities but has yet to return it or provide official medical documentation supporting her stay abroad.
Defence counsel, Abdul Ibrahim, argued that Farouq’s absence was due to ill health and sought the court’s permission to present her within six weeks. However, the court rejected the request.
Ruling on the matter, Justice Onwuegbuzie granted the EFCC’s application for a bench warrant, authorising law enforcement to arrest the two defendants and compel their appearance in court.
The case has been adjourned to May 18, 2026, for arraignment and continuation of trial proceedings.