In a significant development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended the immediate-past Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, and his brother, Abubakar Sirika, over alleged involvement in an N8.06 billion fraud during Hadi Sirika’s tenure.This announcement was made by the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, on Thursday.
The EFCC also revealed plans to prosecute former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, on charges of financial misconduct. Additionally, the commission filed a new four-count charge against former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele, pertaining to the approval of printing N684,590,000 at the rate of N18.96 billion.
Hadi Sirika, a former senator, is under investigation for his role in awarding contracts worth N8,069,176,864.00, including the alleged non-execution of the construction of a Terminal Building in Katsina Airport. Investigations have revealed that significant sums of money linked to these contracts were transferred to Abubakar Sirika’s company, Engirios Nigerian Limited.
According to EFCC sources, Abubakar, a level-16 officer in the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, is listed as the company’s MD/CEO and sole signatory to its accounts. The contracts awarded to his company include the construction of the Terminal Building in Katsina Airport, Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre in Katsina Airport, procurement and installation of equipment in Aviation House, Abuja, and procurement of aircraft for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria.
Furthermore, the EFCC is investigating allegations of conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, contract inflation, criminal breach of trust, and money laundering in the Ministry of Aviation. Contracts worth over N8 billion were allegedly found to be either inflated or unexecuted, prompting the arrest and questioning of Hadi Sirika and his brother.
While Hadi Sirika maintains his innocence, stating that only a fraction of the allocated funds was expended under his administration, the EFCC remains resolute in its pursuit of justice, emphasizing its commitment to uncovering financial malfeasance and holding individuals accountable.
As investigations continue, the EFCC assures the public of its dedication to upholding transparency and integrity in governance.
