Categories: AFRICATop Stories

Former Aviation Minister Sirika, Daughter, Plead Not Guilty to N2.7bn Fraud Charges, Granted N100m Bail Each

The Federal High Court in Abuja, has granted former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika and his daughter bail of 100 million Naira each after their arraignment in court on Thursday.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Sirika on a six-count amended charge bordering on an alleged N2.7 billion contract fraud and reportedly detained him on April 23 pending his arraignment. 

During the court proceedings, Sirika, his daughter, her husband Jalal Hamma, and Al-Duraq Global Investment Limited, entered pleas of not guilty when the charges were read to them.

The charges against Sirika include conferring unfair advantage in the alleged illegal award of consultancy contracts to Tianaero Nigeria Limited for the startup of Air Nigeria, with Prof. Gabriel Tillman, reportedly an associate of the former Minister, acting as the alter ego of the firm.

Tianaero received N1.3 billion for its consultancy services for Air Nigeria.

Additionally, the former Aviation Minister is accused of awarding a contract worth approximately N1.4 billion for the construction of the apron at Katsina Airport to Al-Duraq Global Investment Limited, a company owned by his daughter and son-in-law.

Chioma Kalu

Follow us on:

Chioma Kalu

Recent Posts

Alibaba Targets $5 Billion with Dual-Currency Bond Issue

Alibaba aims to raise $5 billion through multi-currency bonds for corporate purposes, including debt repayment…

1 hour ago

Sweden Updates War, Crisis Pamphlet, Reflecting Escalating Global Tensions

Nordic countries have updated crisis preparedness guides, urging citizens to be self-sufficient amid escalating global…

1 hour ago

Plastic Waste Chokes Congo’s Ruzizi Dam, Causing Widespread Power Outages

Plastic waste is clogging Congo's Ruzizi Dam, causing power outages and disrupting businesses, prompting calls…

2 hours ago

Lagos Urges Residents to Prioritise Safety Amid Dry Season Risks

The Lagos Safety Commission has advised residents to be vigilant and adopt preventive measures to…

2 hours ago

Hong Kong Court Set to Sentence 45 Democratic Campaigners Amid Ongoing National Security Crackdown

A Hong Kong court is set to sentence 45 pro-democracy campaigners in a landmark national…

3 hours ago

International Smuggling Ring Trial Begins in Minnesota After Tragic Border Deaths

Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel and Steve Shand are facing charges related to a human smuggling operation…

3 hours ago