The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has declared former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Sadiya Umar Farouq wanted over alleged fraud and diversion of public funds.

The agency issued the notice on May 9, 2026, saying Farouq, 52, is wanted for criminal conspiracy, abuse of office and diversion of public funds. The EFCC asked anyone with information on her whereabouts to contact its offices nationwide. Her last known address was listed as EN008, Okpo River, off Agulu Street, Maitama, Abuja.

Farouq served as minister from 2019 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari. The EFCC is investigating the ministry over an alleged N37.1 billion fraud tied to social intervention programmes. 

On April 16, an FCT High Court in Apo issued an arrest warrant after she failed to appear for arraignment. She is facing a 21-count charge alongside former permanent secretary Bashir Nura Alkali and one Sani Mohammed. The charges include breach of trust, abuse of office and misappropriation of about $1.3 million and ₦746.6 million allegedly meant for government programmes.

The EFCC said part of the money was supposed to be refunded to the ministry but was instead diverted for personal use.