The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly detained former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, in connection with an ongoing money laundering probe involving the sum of N8,069,176,864.00.
According to reports from Punch Newspapers, Sirika arrived at the EFCC’s Federal Capital Territory Command around 1:00 pm on Tuesday for questioning. He is currently undergoing interrogation regarding alleged fraudulent contracts awarded to a company named Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika.
A source quoted by Punch revealed that Sirika is being investigated for his involvement in aviation ministry contract fraud totaling N8,069,176,864.00, with funds allegedly directed towards Engirios Nigeria Limited, managed by his brother, Abubakar Sirika.
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Abubakar, listed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Engirios Nigeria Limited, is reported to be the sole signatory to the company’s accounts in Zenith and Union Banks. He has also been detained by the EFCC in connection with N3,212,258,930.18 transferred to the company’s bank account by the former minister.
The investigation focuses on conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, contract inflation, criminal breaches of trust, and money laundering during Sirika’s tenure in office.
Contracts awarded by Sirika to Engirios Nigeria Limited include construction projects at Katsina Airport, establishment of a Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Center, procurement and installation of equipment at Aviation House in Abuja, and the purchase of aircraft and a simulator for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology in Zaria.
Despite the substantial contract sums, there is allegedly no evidence of work completed on any of the projects.
Abubakar Sirika, who has been in EFCC custody since February 4, is cooperating with investigators, providing valuable information on the financial activities of the Aviation Ministry during his brother’s tenure.
The EFCC has intensified its probe into the matter, aiming to uncover further details regarding the alleged financial misconduct and ensure accountability in public office.