Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, is under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Hadi Sirika EFCC probe) for alleged embezzlement amounting to N8,069,176,864 during his eight-year tenure.
Sirika appeared at the EFCC’s Federal Capital Territory Command around 1pm on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, to respond to queries regarding fraudulent contracts awarded to a company owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika, during his stewardship.
The investigation stems from previous summons in June 2023 when the anti-graft agency first questioned Sirika about his tenure. In February 2024, the EFCC grilled Abubakar Sirika, who reportedly provided additional information on financial activities within the Aviation Ministry.
The contracts awarded between August 2022 and May 2023 raised concerns of potential malpractice during the Buhari administration’s term. Notably, Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by Abubakar Sirika, received significant contracts including construction of terminal buildings, fire truck maintenance centers, and procurement of aircraft and simulators.
Abubakar Sirika’s prolonged questioning by the EFCC revealed insights into financial transactions under his elder brother’s supervision. The EFCC’s ongoing investigation seeks to unravel the circumstances surrounding these contracts and the alleged misappropriation of funds.
Hadi Sirika EFCC probe adds to the number of Ministers who have served under aviation to face financial scrutiny over their affairs.
