The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Hadi Sirika, the former minister of aviation, over an alleged embezzlement of N8 billion linked to the failed Nigeria Air project.
Reports say Sirika was taken into custody in connection with an ongoing investigation related to money laundering amounting to N8,069,176,864.
Sirika made an appearance at the EFCC’s Federal Capital Territory Command around 1pm on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
Sirika is currently meeting with EFCC investigators to answer questions on alleged fraudulent contracts awarded by him to a company known as Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika.
“Yes, that was Hadi Sirika who was taken into our FCT custody. He is currently meeting with EFCC investigators over the alleged N8,069,176,864.00 aviation ministry contract fraud,” a source revealed,” a source said on the condition of anonymity.
“The N8,069,176,864 aviation ministry contract fraud was carried out in connivance with his younger brother, Abubakar Sirika, through the latter’s company.”
Recall that in February, the EFCC commenced investigations into the activities of the aviation ministry under Sirika for conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, and contract inflation.
The EFCC is also investigating the activities of the aviation ministry for conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, and contract inflation.
