The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly interrogated the former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan, popularly known as Mama Taraba, over alleged financial impropriety to the tune of N2 billion.
According to reports, Al-Hassan was grilled by EFCC operatives for several hours on Monday at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. The former minister is said to have been questioned over funds meant for social development projects during her tenure in office.
The EFCC had earlier invited Al-Hassan for questioning in May but she failed to honour the invitation, citing ill health. However, following her recovery, she reportedly honoured the invitation on Monday.
Al-Hassan served as the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development under President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2018. She was also a former Senator representing Taraba North Senatorial District.
The EFCC has been intensifying its efforts to investigate and prosecute corrupt public officials in Nigeria. The commission has recently secured several high-profile convictions including that of a former governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu, and a former Chairman of the Pension Reform Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina.
As investigations continue, Al-Hassan is expected to provide the commission with necessary information and documentation to aid their probe into the alleged N2 billion fraud.
