An Abuja High Court heard testimony from an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) witness, Isaiah Yesufu, Director of Compliance in the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP), regarding the trial of former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika. Sirika is charged with abuse of office, criminal breach of trust, and use of position for gratification, alongside his brother, Ahmad, and two companies allegedly owned by the brother. The EFCC alleges that Sirika awarded contracts to his brother’s companies, totaling approximately N19.4 billion.
The witness stated that it is the permanent secretary’s duty to ensure project execution complies with the Procurement Act, and the minister is not a member of the Ministerial Tenders Board (MTB). Yesufu also testified that he had no confirmation that Sirika approved the board’s decisions or issued any letters regarding contract awards. During cross-examination by Sirika’s counsel, Kanu Agabi, the witness admitted to making a statement at the EFCC without mentioning Sirika’s name.
The EFCC alleges that Sirika used his position to influence contract awards, including a N1.345 billion contract for a terminal building at Katsina Airport and a N3.8 billion contract for a Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre at the same airport. All defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The trial is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for December 10, as granted by Justice Suleiman Belgore at the request of the second defendant’s counsel, Ufut Okoya.
The case highlights the importance of adherence to procurement regulations and the consequences of alleged abuse of power. As the trial continues, it will be crucial to monitor the proceedings and assess the implications of the allegations against the former minister and his co-defendants. The outcome of this case may have significant repercussions for the aviation industry and the broader fight against corruption in Nigeria.
