The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for declaring former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, wanted over alleged abuse of office and diversion of public funds amounting to about N37 billion.
In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organisation described the development as a significant step in the fight against corruption and a demonstration that no public official should be above accountability, regardless of status or political affiliation.
The anti-corruption organisation recalled that it had earlier welcomed the court order directing the arrest of the former minister and demanded swift investigation and prosecution of all individuals implicated in the alleged fraud linked to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
According to Suraju, the allegations surrounding the mismanagement of humanitarian intervention funds represent a grave betrayal of public trust, especially considering that the funds were meant for vulnerable Nigerians facing poverty, displacement, and economic hardship.
“HEDA commends the EFCC for taking the bold step of declaring the former minister wanted following allegations involving the diversion of public funds meant for humanitarian purposes and her subsequent failure to appear for court summons. This action sends a strong message that accountability must prevail in public service,” the statement said.
The group further urged the EFCC and other relevant anti-graft agencies not to relent until justice is served and all looted public funds are recovered. The organisation stressed that anti-corruption efforts must go beyond media publicity and result in diligent prosecution, asset recovery, and institutional reforms capable of preventing future abuse of public resources.
HEDA also called on citizens with useful information regarding the whereabouts of the former minister to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the interest of justice and national accountability.
The civil society group reiterated its longstanding position that corruption within social intervention programmes undermines national development, deepens inequality, and erodes public confidence in government institutions.
HEDA urged the Federal Government to strengthen transparency mechanisms within ministries, departments, and agencies handling public welfare and intervention programmes to ensure accountability and effective service delivery.
