By Ene Rebecca
April 16, 2026
A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, following her failure to appear in court for arraignment.
The order was granted by the presiding judge after the ex-minister did not attend scheduled proceedings in a case brought against her by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The anti-graft agency is prosecuting Farouq over alleged financial misconduct linked to her time in office under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
According to court proceedings, Farouq is facing multiple charges, including allegations of criminal breach of trust, abuse of office, and misappropriation of public funds. The charges are part of broader investigations into the handling of funds allocated for humanitarian programmes during her tenure.
Prosecutors told the court that the defendant had been duly informed of the charges and was expected to appear for arraignment but failed to do so. They urged the court to issue a warrant to compel her attendance and ensure the case proceeds without further delay.
In response, her legal representatives cited health-related issues as the reason for her absence, stating that she was receiving medical treatment. However, the court granted the prosecution’s request and ordered her arrest to guarantee her appearance at the next hearing.
The case also involves a senior government official who is standing trial alongside the former minister, as part of ongoing efforts by anti-corruption authorities to investigate financial activities within the ministry.
The development highlights continuing scrutiny of public officials by Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies and underscores the judiciary’s role in enforcing accountability in the management of public resources.
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