EFCC Recovers Over N30 Billion in Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs Money Laundering Probe

In a significant breakthrough, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly reclaimed over N30 billion linked to the alleged money laundering activities in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.

The funds were said to be part of the N37.1 billion transferred from government coffers to various bank accounts associated with contractor James Okwete during the tenure of former minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk.

Sources within the anti-graft agency revealed that the recovery followed the imposition of a lien on the bank accounts of both Umar-Farouq and Okwete, who are currently undergoing intense scrutiny by EFCC investigators.

The N30 billion recovery is viewed as a significant stride in uncovering financial irregularities within the ministry.

Concurrently, the EFCC is also investigating Betta Edu, who succeeded Umar-Farouk, over an alleged N17 billion fraud. President Bola Tinubu recently suspended Edu, and the EFCC has reportedly recovered over N500 million in connection with this case. The suspended Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), Halima Shehu, is also under investigation for an alleged N44 billion fraud.

Despite the agency’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, refraining from providing comments on the ongoing investigations, sources emphasize the EFCC’s commitment to meticulous scrutiny and the recovery of misappropriated funds.

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In a related development, the EFCC disclosed that it recovered a total of N70.56 billion between October 2023 and January 19, 2024. This includes N60.97 billion, $10.52 million, £150,002.10, and €4,119.90. The agency received 3,325 petitions during this period, accepted 2,657, and secured 747 convictions for various financial crimes.

The EFCC’s proactive stance underscores its dedication to addressing corruption and financial impropriety, particularly in cases involving high-profile public officials. The agency’s relentless efforts align with its mandate to uphold transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria.