Fraud Allegations: EFCC Ramps Up Investigations Against Malami, Sirika, And Umar-Farouq

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has heightened its scrutiny into grave allegations of fraud implicating prominent figures from President Muhammadu Buhari’s previous administration.

Among the key individuals under investigation are Hadi Sirika, the former Minister of Aviation; Abubakar Malami, the former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General; and Sadiya Umar-Farouq, who previously served as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development.

Sources within the EFCC, as reported by The Sun, revealed that these former ministers, known for their close ties to President Buhari, are suspected to have fled the country as the EFCC intensifies its pursuit of justice. The commission has reportedly subjected the assets and bank accounts of these individuals, as well as those of their immediate family members, to stringent monitoring due to alleged involvement in illicit financial activities.

Detailed Allegations and High-Value Scandals

The allegations against these ex-ministers are extensive and serious. Abubakar Malami, known for his significant influence during Buhari’s tenure, is facing multiple petitions. One such petition accuses him of distributing 30 luxury vehicles valued at over N1 billion to supporters in Kebbi State ahead of the 2023 elections. These vehicles, which included Mercedes Benz, Prado SUVs, Toyota Hilux, and Lexus LX cars, were purportedly distributed to various groups, including social media influencers, members of his foundation, and women’s support groups.

Additionally, Malami is accused of involvement in the unauthorized sale of sea vessels carrying seized crude oil, a direct violation of the EFCC Act. His alleged participation in suspicious financial transactions, such as the duplicated payment of $16.9 million in legal fees and the controversial $496 million payment to Global Steel Holdings Ltd as a settlement for the scrapped Ajaokuta Steel concession, has also come under scrutiny.

Hadi Sirika and Extravagant Spending

Hadi Sirika, another prominent figure in the investigation, is alleged to have mismanaged substantial funds during his tenure as Minister of Aviation. The EFCC has detained his younger brother, Abubakar Ahmad Sirika, suggesting potential familial involvement in the alleged misconduct. Accusations against Sirika include the extravagant spending of $600,000 on a logo design for an aviation project that never materialized and the questionable procurement of 10 fire trucks at a total cost of N12 billion.

Charges Pending Against Umar-Farouq

The EFCC’s investigations have expanded to include Sadiya Umar-Farouq, with plans to formally charge her and several senior officials from her ministry. These wide-ranging investigations underscore a broader crackdown on corruption and financial mismanagement within the previous government.

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