Nigeria’s former aviation minister, Hadi Sirika, along with his daughter and two other individuals, stood before the Abuja High Court for their re-arraignment on charges of a multi-billion Naira contract fraud. Here are the significant facts from this legal proceeding:
1) Accusations of Financial Misconduct: Sirika and his co-accused face charges concerning an alleged misappropriation of N2.7 billion during his ministerial term.
2) EFCC Leading the Charge: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission brought forth the allegations before Justice Sylvanus Oriji today, Thursday, May 9, 2024.
3) Additional Parties Implicated: Alongside Sirika and his daughter Fatimah, individuals Jalal Hamma and Al-Duraq Investment Ltd are also implicated in the alleged fraud.
4) Conflict of Interest Claims: The former minister is accused of improperly awarding contracts to his family members and associates, leveraging his governmental position.
5) Terms of Release: Each accused has been granted a ₦100 million bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja, under stringent conditions.
9) Bail Bound by Assets: The court mandated that two Abuja-based sureties with significant landed properties must vouch for the accused.
10) Travel Restrictions Enforced: The court has imposed a restriction on international travel for the accused without explicit permission.
READ MORE: Former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika and Daughter to Face EFCC Charges Over Alleged Fraud
11) Consequences of Non-Compliance: Should the accused fail to satisfy bail stipulations, they will face imprisonment.
12) Scheduled Trial Dates: The EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Jacob, confirmed the trial is set for June 10, 11, and 20, marking critical days in this high-profile case.
The re-arraignment of Hadi Sirika manifestly underscores Nigeria’s judicial commitment to addressing alleged corruption, with the nation’s eyes set on the upcoming trial dates for a case that implicates a well-known political figure and his associates.
