Counsel to former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, has informed the court that his client is currently in Egypt and medically unfit to appear for proceedings.

The lawyer, Oladipo Okpesheyi, made the submission on behalf of the former minister, stating that her absence was due to health-related challenges and her current stay outside the country.

Farouq is standing trial alongside Bashir Nura Alkali, a former Permanent Secretary in the ministry, and Sani Mohammed, over a 21-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The charges border on alleged breach of trust and abuse of office in relation to financial activities during their tenure in the ministry.

The case, which is being heard before a Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, has continued to draw public attention due to the prominence of the defendants and the nature of the allegations.

The court is expected to take further steps on the matter at its next adjourned date, pending clarification on her medical condition and availability.