Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Abubakar Sirika, will face charges before the FCT High Court Abuja, brought against him, his daughter, son-in-law, and their company, Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges stem from the alleged diversion of public funds meant for aviation projects, including the failed national airline project, Air Nigeria.
The EFCC has levied six charges against Sirika, his daughter, son-in-law, and their company. The charges include using his position to confer unfair advantage upon certain companies and individuals, criminal breach of trust, and holding private interests in government contracts. The charges also allege that Sirika and others had possession of proceeds from criminal conduct.
Specifically, the charges accuse Sirika of using his position to influence the award of contracts, including the consultancy contract for the Nigerian Air start-up and the apron extension at Katsina Airport. The EFCC claims that Sirika and his associates diverted substantial sums of money for personal gain, leading to the failure of the aviation projects.
The former minister, who left office nearly a year ago, will have the opportunity to explain his actions before the court. However, the EFCC’s investigation into Sirika’s involvement in the failed Nigeria Air project and other contracts suggests serious allegations of corruption during his tenure.
Sirika, a prominent figure in the Buhari administration, was temporarily freed on administrative bail following the EFCC’s investigation last month. His case marks one of the first instances of top officials from the administration facing charges for alleged graft.
