EFCC Set To Arraign Ex-Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika Over Alleged N8billion Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to arraign former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, in court next week.

Hadi Sirika faces charges related to an ongoing investigation into fraud and money laundering totaling N8,069,176,864.00.

According to THISDAY, the investigation is related to contracts awarded for Katsina Airport, the installation of lifts at Abuja Aviation House, and the procurement of Magnus Aircraft and simulator for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria.

Sirika was reportedly questioned by EFCC operatives at the Federal Capital Territory Command on Tuesday afternoon.

The interrogation is due to the alleged fraudulent contracts awarded to a company called Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika, a deputy director at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

Sources close to the investigation revealed that Sirika is expected to face charges in court next week as part of the ongoing probe.

“We invited him to ask him questions in relation to our investigations. He will be charged to court next week,” the source said.

The investigation uncovered that Sirika 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 Centre at Katsina Airport, procurement and installation of lifts, air conditioners, and power generator’s house at Aviation House, Abuja, and procurement of Magnus Aircraft and simulator for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria.

It was revealed that out of the total contract sum, the former minister disbursed N3.2 billion to his brother’s company, which subsequently transferred the funds to various entities.

However, no work has been completed on any of the contract items to date.

“There is no trace of work done on any of the contract items till date,” the source said.

Abubakar Sirika has also been arrested and detained by the EFCC in connection with the investigation.

KanyiDaily recalls that the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo had revealed that the EFCC is probing Hadi Sirika over the Nigeria Air deal.