The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended Hadi Sirika, Nigeria’s former Minister of Aviation, in connection with an ongoing probe into an alleged fraud case totaling N8,069,176,864.00.
The arrest marks a significant development in the investigation into corruption within the aviation sector.
Sirika was taken into custody at the EFCC’s Federal Capital Territory Command in Abuja at approximately 1:00 pm on Tuesday. A correspondent from Punch confirmed his arrival at the EFCC’s office in Wuse, Abuja, where he is currently undergoing interrogation regarding fraudulent contracts awarded during his tenure.
Confidential sources within the EFCC revealed that Sirika is facing allegations concerning contracts granted to Engirios Nigeria Limited, a company owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika. These contracts, amounting to over N8 billion, encompass various projects in the aviation sector, including construction, maintenance, and procurement.
Among the contracts under scrutiny are the construction of the Terminal Building at Katsina Airport, the establishment of a Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre at Katsina Airport, and the procurement and installation of equipment for Aviation House in Abuja.
Additionally, the EFCC is investigating a contract for the procurement of Magnus aircraft and a simulator for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria.
Abubakar Sirika, Hadi Sirika’s younger brother and the sole signatory to Engirios Nigeria Limited’s accounts, was previously detained by the commission.
The EFCC is examining a transfer of N3,212,258,930.18 to the company’s bank accounts, with no evidence of completed work for the awarded contracts.
As the investigation progresses, further details are anticipated regarding the alleged conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, and contract inflation during Hadi Sirika’s tenure as Minister of Aviation. The EFCC’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption in high-profile cases are closely monitored, and this arrest is expected to garner significant public attention.
