N37bn fraud: Buhari’s Minister, Umar-Farouq breaks silence over Okwete’s arrest
A former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, has denied knowing a contractor, James Okwete.
Okwete was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for allegedly laundering N37bn.
Umar-Farouk made the rebuttal on Monday in a message posted on X, insisting she served the nation with every sense of responsibility.
The former Minister also made it clear she was ready to defend her actions whenever called upon to do so.
“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.
“While I resist the urge to engage in any media trial whatsoever, I have however contacted my Legal Team to explore possible options to seek redress on the malicious attack on my person.
“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.”
