In the latest development surrounding the alleged N2.7 billion fraud case, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, under the jurisdiction of Presiding Judge Sylvanus Orji, has issued a travel ban on the immediate-past Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, along with his daughter, Fatimah, and son-in-law, Jalal Hamma.
The court’s ruling mandates that Sirika and his family members remain within the country’s borders until the conclusion of their trial pertaining to the alleged fraud. This decision follows their arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on six counts related to fraudulent activities.
Among the charges are allegations involving Al-Buraq Investment Ltd., where Sirika is accused of abusing his former office by awarding a N1.3 billion consultancy contract for the Nigerian Air Start-up to Tianero Nigeria Limited. The EFCC contends that Sirika’s actions violated Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
Furthermore, the anti-graft agency alleges that Sirika utilized his position to confer an unfair advantage upon Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, a company connected to his daughter and son-in-law. They claim he influenced the award of a contract worth N1.498 billion for the Apron Extension at Katsina Airport.
Despite pleading not guilty during the court proceedings, the defendants were granted bail in the sum of N100 million each, with two sureties in like sum, following a bail application by the defence counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN). Justice Orji specified that one of the sureties must possess a landed property within the Federal Capital Territory and that they must provide an affidavit of means.
Additionally, the judge imposed a restriction on the defendants’ travel outside the country without prior permission, with failure to meet bail conditions resulting in their remand in a correctional facility.
The trial dates were set for June 10, 11, and 20, marking the commencement of legal proceedings concerning the alleged N2.7 billion fraud involving the former Aviation Minister and his associates.
