The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended Hadi Sirika, the former Minister of Aviation under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Sirika’s arrest is linked to an ongoing N8 billion money laundering investigation related to the Nigeria Air project.
Reports indicate that Sirika was detained upon his arrival at the Federal Capital Territory Command of the EFCC on Tuesday afternoon. He is currently facing interrogation by EFCC investigators regarding alleged fraudulent contracts awarded to Engirios Nigeria Limited, a company owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika.
The investigation into Sirika’s activities stems from allegations of conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, contract inflation, criminal breaches of trust, and money laundering during his tenure as Minister of Aviation. The total sum under scrutiny amounts to a staggering N8,069,176,864.00.
Abubakar Sirika, identified as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Engirios Nigeria Limited, has also been implicated in the probe. He is reported to be the sole signatory to the company’s bank accounts, held in Zenith and Union Banks. The EFCC has detained Abubakar Sirika in connection with N3,212,258,930.18 allegedly paid to his company’s account by the former minister, with no evidence of work completed on the contracted items.
This arrest marks a significant development in the investigation initiated by the EFCC into financial expenditures within the Aviation Ministry during Sirika’s tenure. The probe underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in public office, as well as the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat corruption at all levels.
Sirika’s arrest sends a strong message about the consequences of financial malpractice and underscores the need for stringent measures to safeguard public funds.
As the investigation unfolds, Nigerians await further updates on the outcome of the EFCC’s probe and any subsequent legal actions.