Former Aviation Minister Sirika, Hadi Sirika faced a six-count charge from the EFCC, denying all allegations, including corrupt practices amounting to ₦2.7 billion.
Accusations suggest he exploited his ministerial position to secure undue benefits for his daughter and son-in-law, granting them consultancy roles and contracts for the Nigerian Air startup and Katsina Airport extension.
Arraigned alongside his daughter, Fatima, son-in-law, Jalal Sule Hamma, and Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, they all pleaded not guilty.
Sirika’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi, requested bail on recognizance or liberal terms, citing his client’s former ministerial and senatorial status. The judge granted bail at ₦100 million.
Former Aviation Minister Sirika has been under investigation by the anti-graft agency since he left office following allegations of misappropriation and other underhand dealing under his stewardship. The Nigeria Air fiasco however caused further public outcry which also led the EFCC to step in and probe his activities.
