A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, his daughter, and two others in the sum of ₦100 million each with two sureties. The court specified that the sureties must have landed properties in Abuja and be responsible citizens. Additionally, they must depose to an affidavit of means. The court also imposed travel restrictions on the defendants, stating that they cannot travel abroad without its permission. Justice Oriji ordered that the defendants be remanded in prison custody if they fail to meet their bail conditions.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had taken Sirika into custody in April and later charged him with a six-count charge of fraud. The charges include allegations of awarding a N1.3 billion consultancy contract for the Nigerian Air start-up to Tianero Nigeria Limited, and using his position to confer unfair advantage upon Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, a company linked to his daughter and son-in-law, in the award of a contract for the Apron Extension at Katsina Airport for the sum of N1,498,300,750.
Sirika is accused of abusing his office, which the EFCC alleges is contrary to Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. The case has been closely watched due to its high-profile nature and the significant sums of money involved.
