Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, is set to appear in court next week as part of an ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This follows his recent arrest and questioning by the anti-graft agency over allegations of fraud and money laundering amounting to N8,069,176,864.00.
The probe centers around various contracts awarded during Sirika’s tenure as Minister of Aviation under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Specifically, the investigation focuses on contracts related to the Katsina Airport, installation of lifts at Abuja Aviation House, and the procurement of aircraft and simulator for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology in Zaria.
Sirika’s interrogation by EFCC operatives, which took place at the Federal Capital Territory Command on Tuesday, primarily focused on contracts he authorized for a company called Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika, who holds a position as a deputy director at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.
According to EFCC investigations, Sirika allegedly awarded contracts to his brother’s company despite knowing that Abubakar Sirika was a civil servant. The contracts included the construction of a terminal building at Katsina Airport, establishment of a fire truck maintenance and refurbishment center at the airport, procurement and installation of equipment at Aviation House in Abuja, and the procurement of aircraft and simulator for the aviation college in Zaria.
Out of the total contract sum, approximately N3.2 billion was paid to Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by Abubakar Sirika. However, investigations have revealed no evidence of work being completed on any of the contract items.
Both Hadi Sirika and his brother, Abubakar Sirika, have been arrested and detained by the EFCC in connection with the ongoing investigation. The EFCC source indicated that charges against Hadi Sirika will be filed in court next week as part of the agency’s efforts to combat corruption and hold individuals accountable for financial malpractices.