EFCC arraigns Hadi Sirika

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally arraigned former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, his brother Ahmad Abubakar Sirika, and Enginos Nigeria Limited—Ahmad’s company—on charges of contract fraud.

The arraignment, which took place in Abuja, follows an amended 10-count charge filed on May 14, 2024, relating to illicit contract awards amounting to N19.4 billion.

Hadi Sirika faces serious accusations of abusing his office by awarding government contracts to Enginos Nigeria Limited during his tenure. Both Sirikas and the company have pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The initial proceedings on May 14 were delayed as the defendants failed to appear in court, heightening tensions and anticipation regarding the legal battle.

This is not Hadi Sirika’s first encounter with the law over similar allegations. He is also undergoing trial on a separate six-count charge related to an alleged ₦2.7 billion contract. This earlier case involves his daughter Fatima, his son-in-law Jalal Hamma, and Al-Duraq Investment Limited, all of whom have pleaded not guilty and are currently out on ₦100 million bail each.

Sirika served as the aviation minister from 2019 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. His management of the ministry has come under scrutiny, prompting the EFCC to investigate alleged fraudulent activities during his tenure.

The EFCC’s focus on Sirika intensified following his initial detention on April 23, where he cooperated with investigators.