Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, has been apprehended by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with the controversial Nigeria Air project. Sirika's arrest came after EFCC operatives discreetly descended upon his Abuja residence, where he was taken into custody.
Sources indicate that Sirika faces accusations ranging from conspiracy and abuse of office to the diversion of public funds amounting to a staggering N8.06 billion.
The former minister was reportedly caught off guard as EFCC operatives arrived at his residence, leading to his immediate apprehension.
During his interrogation at the EFCC's Federal Capital Territory Command, Sirika was pressed to account for the purported misappropriation of funds allocated to the Ministry of Aviation during his tenure.
The investigation aims to shed light on the role Sirika played in the alleged infractions and hold him accountable for any wrongdoing.
Furthermore, the EFCC's probe extends beyond Sirika himself, as the agency prepares to summon other officials who worked closely with him in the aviation ministry.
This includes directors who served under Sirika, as well as individuals linked to the Nigeria Air project.
The Nigeria Air scandal has been a focal point of scrutiny, with stakeholders, aviation unions, and civil society organizations calling for a thorough investigation following the project's collapse. President Bola Tinubu's decision to sack several heads of Nigeria's aviation agencies in December 2023 further intensified the spotlight on corruption within the sector.
Additionally, the EFCC has maintained restrictions on the bank account of Sirika's younger brother, Abubakar Ahmad Sirika, amid allegations of money laundering. Investigations revealed significant sums transferred to Abubakar's private company, Engirios Nigeria Limited, allegedly linked to fraudulent contracts awarded by the former minister.
