Sadiya Umar Farouk, former minister of humanitarian affairs, disaster management and social development, has denied any association with an investigation involving James Okwete, a person she say is entirely unknown to her.
In a statement issued via the former Minister’s X handle, Farouk rebuffed the allegations connecting her to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigation, firmly stating that Okwete had no ties to her or any representation on her behalf.
The EFCC had arrested Okwete for allegedly laundering N37bn.
She tweeted, “There have been a number of reports linking me to a purported investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into the activities of one James Okwete, someone completely unknown to me. James Okwete neither worked for, nor represented me in any way whatsoever. The linkages and associations to my person are spurious.”
“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 programmes during my tenure whenever I am called upon to do so.
Expressing her disdain for the accusations, Farouk announced her decision to refrain from engaging in a media trial but stated that she had already sought counsel from her legal team.
She said she’ll explore potential avenues to address what she termed a “malicious attack” on her character.
Farouk, the pioneer minister of the humanitarian ministry affirmed her willingness to defend her actions, leadership, and initiatives implemented during her tenure as a Minister whenever called upon to do so.
According to Umaru Farouq, her resolve to challenge the allegations underscores her commitment to preserving her integrity amidst what she deems as unfounded linkages and associations.
“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 programmes during my tenure whenever I am called upon to do so,” she said.
The situation awaits further developments as Farouk considers her options to seek redress against the allegations that have surfaced.
