Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken decisive action, freezing private accounts containing N30 billion of the suspiciously moved N44 billion from the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA). This revelation emerged as the EFCC meticulously traced the funds to various accounts linked to individuals serving as fronts.
In the unfolding investigation, the former National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer of NSIPA, Halima Shehu, faced questioning by EFCC interrogators on Wednesday. Simultaneously, the agency arrested NSIPA’s immediate past Director of Finance and Accounts, Bwai Adamu Hamza, who retired in December.
Truth Live News can confirm that Former minister Sadiya Umar-Farouq, responsible for Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, declined the EFCC’s invitation regarding the alleged laundering of N37.1 billion during her tenure. Citing health challenges, Umar-Farouq sent a letter explaining her inability to attend but assured cooperation through her lawyer. The EFCC emphasized the need for her prompt compliance.
Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson, clarified that the reported N37.1 billion misappropriation figure might not be accurate, as the agency continues to track transactions. He emphasized that the ongoing investigation could reveal a higher amount.
Addressing the arrest of Halima Shehu, Oyewale confirmed her release and detailed that she would periodically report to the EFCC for further interrogation. Shehu’s association with the Conditional Cash Transfer Programme during Buhari’s tenure raised questions about funds leaving the ministry’s coffers under her purview.
As the EFCC unfolds the intricacies of this financial mismanagement, the nation awaits further developments, with the possibility of the misappropriation figure exceeding initial estimates. The involvement of key figures from NSIPA and the former minister underscores the gravity of the situation, highlighting the imperative for transparency and accountability in public funds management.