Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for the immediate prosecution of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, following the uncovering of an alleged N37 billion fraud in the ministry.

HURIWA, while reacting to revelations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), strongly condemned the actions outlined in the anti-crime agency's report, asserting that such corruption severely undermined the purpose of humanitarian efforts aimed at assisting the most vulnerable in society.

According to a statement on Sunday by HURIWA's National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group demanded justice and accountability for Umar-Farouk's alleged role in the financial misappropriation. “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently exposed the staggering sum of N37,170,855,753.44 allegedly laundered within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, with funds traced to 38 different bank accounts connected to contractor James Okwete.

“According to the EFCC, Okwete, purportedly linked to the former Minister, diverted significant amounts of the money, including transfers to Bureau De Change Operators, cash withdrawals, luxury car purchases, and the acquisition of high-end properties.”

HURIWA stressed that such acts undermined the very essence of humanitarian efforts meant to alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable in society. The organization emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and a fair trial to determine the guilt or innocence of all involved parties, including Sadiya Umar-Farouk.

Onwubiko stated that "corruption in any form, especially within government ministries tasked with providing essential services to the less privileged, is a gross violation of public trust.

"We call on the relevant authorities to expedite the legal process and ensure that those responsible face the consequences of their actions.

"The allegations against Umar-Farouk follow previous revelations by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC), which uncovered N2.67 billion meant for the ministry's school feeding program in private bank accounts. We express deep concern over the recurring incidents of financial mismanagement within ministries meant to address critical societal needs.”

The association reiterated its demand for swift and thorough prosecution of Sadiya Umar-Farouk, emphasizing the importance of sending a strong message that corruption within government ministries will not be tolerated.

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