Lawyers Demand NY Probe of Sahara Media Group, Sowore Over Alleged Financial Irregularities

 A group of Nigerian lawyers has petitioned the Attorney General of the State of New York, United States, demanding a full investigation into the financial dealings of Sahara Media Group Incorporated and its founder, Mr. Omoyele Sowore.

The petition, signed by Barristers Sunday Oluwole and Felix Olanrewaju Wolemiwa, calls for a detailed audit of the organization’s finances, including the use of a $1.3 million grant awarded by the MacArthur Foundation between 2016 and 2019. The lawyers expressed concern that the funds may not have been used for their intended charitable purposes.

According to the petition, inconsistencies appear between Sahara Media Group’s reported assets and income in Nigeria and its U.S. financial records. The lawyers are asking the New York Attorney General to review tax filings, grants, and overall compliance with U.S. nonprofit and tax regulations.

“This petition seeks to ensure full transparency and accountability for funds meant for public interest projects,” Barrister Oluwole said.

The petition comes as Mr. Sowore faces ongoing scrutiny in Nigeria, where courts have been investigating his personal and corporate financial activities.

Sahara Media Group, widely recognized for its media operations across Africa and the diaspora, has not yet responded to the petition, and the New York Attorney General’s office has made no public comment.

The case underscores growing calls for international oversight of organizations receiving foreign grants, especially when concerns arise about the proper use of funds across multiple jurisdictions.