EFCC Arraigns Hadi Sirika and Others for N2.8 Billion Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) took a decisive step in its anti-corruption efforts by arraigning former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Abubakar Sirika, along with three others, before Justice S.C Oriji of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court. The arraignment, which took place on Thursday, May 9, 2024, marked a significant development in the ongoing fight against financial malfeasance in Nigeria.

The defendants, including Fatima Hadi Sirika, Jalal Sule Hamma, and Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, faced six amended charges related to contract fraud amounting to a staggering N2,825,032,220.97. Among the charges, count one specifically accused Hadi Abubakar Sirika of abusing his ministerial position to favor TIANAERO NIGERIA LIMITED, an entity associated with his associate, Prof. Gabriel Tilmann, in the award of consultancy contracts for the Nigerian Air Start-up, totaling N1,326,731,470.97. This allegation, if proven, constitutes a violation of Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Similarly, count two of the charges implicated Hadi Abubakar Sirika in using his ministerial influence to benefit Al Buraq Global Investment Ltd, a company linked to his daughter and son-in-law, Fatima Hadi Sirika and Jalal Sule Hamma, respectively. The contract in question pertained to the Apron Extension at Katsina Airport, with an amount of N1,498,300,750.00. Such actions, if substantiated, would also contravene Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Legal Proceedings Unfold

During the court proceedings, the EFCC presented its case meticulously, outlining the alleged fraudulent activities perpetrated by the defendants during Hadi Abubakar Sirika’s tenure as Minister of Aviation between April 2022 and March 2023. The charges leveled against the accused underscored the gravity of the situation, highlighting the abuse of power and breach of public trust, which are antithetical to the principles of good governance and accountability.

Justice S.C Oriji of the FCT High Court presided over the arraignment, ensuring adherence to due process and the rule of law. The legal proceedings unfolded with the prosecution presenting compelling evidence to support the charges brought against the defendants. The defense, in turn, sought to refute the allegations and challenge the prosecution’s case through legal arguments and counter-evidence.

As the trial commenced, the court’s attention turned to the intricate details of each charge, with both prosecution (EFCC) and defense engaging in rigorous legal discourse. The arraignment underscored the EFCC’s commitment to combatting corruption at all levels and holding public officials accountable for their actions. As the case progresses, stakeholders await the court’s verdict, which will serve as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s fight against corruption and impunity.

High Court Grants Bail to Defendants in Amended Charges Case by EFCC

In a recent development at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the lead prosecution counsel for EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, presented an amended six-count charge against the defendants. As the defendants, represented by their respective counsels, were ushered into the dock, Jacobs informed the court of the amended charges and requested that the defendants be allowed to enter their pleas. Notably, all four defense counsels, including Kanu Agabi, SAN, Mohmud Magaji, SAN, M.J Numa, SAN, and Okpai Benard Addafu, SAN, did not object to this request.

Justice Oriji, presiding over the case, subsequently ruled in favor of the prosecution’s request, granting the defendants the opportunity to plead. Upon the reading of the charges, each defendant pleaded not guilty. Following their pleas, defense counsels reminded the court of bail applications previously submitted, which were met without opposition from the prosecution.

In a significant turn of events, Justice Oriji granted bail to all four defendants, setting the bail amount at N100 million (One Hundred Million Naira only) each, coupled with strict conditions. Each defendant is required to provide two sureties possessing landed properties within Abuja, accompanied by Certificates of Occupancy signed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Additionally, all sureties must depose to affidavits of means. Furthermore, the defendants are prohibited from traveling outside the country without the court’s permission. Until the bail conditions are met, the defendants are to be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

Trial Commencement Adjourned as Defendants Granted Bail

With the bail conditions set, Justice Oriji adjourned the proceedings to June 10, 11, and 20 for the commencement of trial. This adjournment provides both the defense and prosecution ample time to prepare their cases and gather evidence. The decision to grant bail underscores the court’s commitment to uphold the principles of justice while ensuring that the defendants adhere to the legal process.

As the case progresses, all eyes remain on the courtroom, where the intricate details of the charges by EFCC and the defendants’ defense strategies will unfold. The outcome of this trial holds significant implications for both the defendants and the broader legal landscape, shaping the course of justice in the country also this will demonstrate how EFCC are ready to combat corruption in public sector especially among elected