The former Nigerian Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Hadjia Sadiya Umar Farouq has disclaimed the story making rounds in social media linking her with the N37 billion fraud with one James Okwete.
In a press release signed by Alexander Udeh, Media Assistant to the then Minister said ‘‘My attention has been drawn to publications in some online media outlets trying to link my name with the activities of one Mr. James Okwete who is reportedly being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged financial improprieties.’’
The statement which tagged: RE: EFCC INVESTIGATES N37 BILLION FRAUD MY POSITION stated, ‘‘Ordinarily, I would have ignored such publications, which at best could be seen and regarded as speculative but doing so will give energy to the adventure of those who take delight in mudslinging, especially against those who are, or have been privileged to hold public offices.’’
‘‘In this age of digital media when unverified materials are easily dumped and recalled from the cyber space, it would be *inappropriate* to ignore such a malicious linkage.
‘‘I wish to state categorically that I neither know the said Mr. Okwete nor have ever had him represent me in any way whatsoever. Therefore, linking me with him in whatever guise is bogus and ill-intentioned.’’
According to the statement, ‘‘I remain proud to have served my country as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with every sense of responsibility and would defend my actions, stewardship and programmes during my tenure whenever I am called upon to do so.
‘‘While I resist the urge to engage in any media banter whatsoever on this issue since my name was never expressly mentioned by the agency reportedly investigating Mr. Okwete, I am nonetheless prepared to seek redress legally and clear my name if there is any such defamatory reference to my person from any source.’’
