The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested contractor James Okwete in connection with an ongoing investigation into the alleged laundering of N37 billion by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development under former Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk.
Okwete has reportedly provided useful statements implicating Umar-Farouk and former directors-general of the ministry.
This development coincides with a broader probe into three other former ministers for graft estimated at N150 billion.
The EFCC is expected to make further arrests, and Umar-Farouk and other officials may be brought in for questioning.
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The N37.1 billion was allegedly transferred from the federal government’s coffers to 38 different bank accounts linked to Okwete.
Documents reveal that Okwete, a contractor, was involved in transferring funds, purchasing luxury items, and securing contracts.
He is associated with 53 companies, with 47 of them used to secure federal government contracts totaling N27.4 billion. Okwete is also linked to 143 bank accounts in 12 commercial banks.
The EFCC source indicates that Okwete has been cooperating with investigators and providing details that implicate Umar-Farouk and other officials.
The anti-graft commission is investigating allegations of financial misappropriation, and further arrests may follow as the investigation progresses.
Umar-Farouk, who served as the pioneer Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, has yet to respond to the allegations.
The investigation follows previous reports of financial irregularities, including the diversion of N2.67 billion meant for school feeding during the COVID-19 lockdown.
The probe highlights the Nigerian government’s efforts to address corruption and financial mismanagement within its ministries and agencies.
The EFCC’s actions underscore the commitment to holding public officials accountable for alleged financial misconduct.
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