Buhari (middle) with the two EFCC chairmen that served his administration
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has turned its attention to the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, arresting contractor James Okwete in connection with the alleged laundering of N37 billion by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development during the previous government.
Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk, who headed the ministry at the time, is under scrutiny, and a close connection with the former president adds intrigue to the unfolding investigation. An EFCC official, according to a The Punch report on Monday, disclosed that Okwete, currently in custody, has provided valuable information implicating Umar-Farouk and the former permanent secretary of the ministry.
This development aligns with the ongoing probe of three other ministers, collectively accused of involvement in graft estimated at N150 billion.
Sources reveal that the financial misappropriation details shared by Okwete may lead to the potential arrest of Umar-Farouk and former directors associated with the ministry. The alleged N37.1 billion was reportedly transferred from the Federal Government to 38 different bank accounts connected to or belonging to Okwete. The contractor, cooperating with investigators, is shedding light on a complex web of financial transactions.
Okwete’s activities include transferring funds to Bureau De Change Operators, substantial cash withdrawals, luxury car purchases, and acquisitions of high-end properties in Abuja and Enugu.
Additionally, he is linked to 53 companies and has secured federal government contracts totalling N27,423,824,339.86. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale refrained from providing comments on the ongoing investigation.
As the details unfold, the EFCC’s intensified efforts highlight the commitment to transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s political landscape, emphasising the need for thorough scrutiny and adherence to ethical governance principles. The unfolding saga underscores the significance of tackling corruption to ensure the proper utilisation of government resources for the nation’s development.”
