EFCC Interrogates Former Aviation Minister Over Alleged N8bn Nigeria Air Fraud

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) questioned former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, concerning an alleged ₦8 billion fraud related to the Nigeria Air project.

According to a senior EFCC official who spoke to Channels Television, Mr Sirika honoured an invitation to appear at the EFCC Headquarters in the Jabi area of Abuja on Tuesday.

In a statement to journalists, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede confirmed ongoing investigations into the Aviation and Humanitarian Affairs ministries. 

Mr Olukoyede clarified that the probe extended beyond Sirika and Betta Edu, encompassing various aspects of both ministries.

“The investigation targets the system, and anyone found culpable along the line will face scrutiny,” Olukoyede asserted.

Earlier in April, the EFCC had arrested Mr Sirika’s younger brother, Abubakar Sirika, over alleged fraudulent activities within the ministry.

Sirika Faces Allegations of Financial Misconduct

Mr Sirika stands accused of multiple charges, including conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, contract inflation, criminal breach of trust, and money laundering amounting to about N8 billion (N8,069,176,864).

According to EFCC sources, the funds were allocated for four aviation contracts awarded by the former minister to a company called Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by his brother Abubakar Sirika.

Abubakar Sirika, identified as the Managing Director and CEO of Engirios Nigeria Limited, was the sole signatory to the company’s bank accounts held at Zenith and Union banks.

Alleged Irregular Contracts Awarded

The controversial contracts awarded by Sirika to Engirios Nigeria Limited include the construction of a Terminal Building in Katsina Airport, valued at about N1. 3 billion (N1,345,586,500), and the establishment of a Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre in Katsina Airport, costing N3.8 billion.

Additionally, contracts were awarded for the procurement and installation of lifts, air conditioners, and a power generator’s house in Aviation House, Abuja, at the cost of N615 million. Another contract involved the procurement of Magnus Aircraft and a simulator for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria, amounting to N2.2 billion.

Out of the total contract sum, Sirika purportedly disbursed N3.2 billion to Engirios Nigeria Limited, which then transferred the funds to various entities. However, there is allegedly no evidence of work completed for any of the contract items.

This reporter reached out to the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity for comment but received no response at the time of reporting.