By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering amounting to N8,069,176,864.00.
Sirika was taken into custody at the EFCC’s Federal Capital Territory Command around 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
He was questioned by EFCC investigators over alleged fraudulent contracts he awarded to a company called Engirios Nigeria Limited, which is owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika.
The arrest is linked to the ongoing investigation into the Nigerian Air scandal, which involves the alleged embezzlement of over ₦8 billion.
The EFCC is investigating Sirika for his role in authorising the fraudulent contracts, which were awarded to his brother’s company without following due process.
Sirika’s arrest is a significant development in the investigation, and it is expected that more details will emerge in the coming days.
The EFCC has been investigating the Nigerian Air scandal for several months, and Sirika’s arrest is a major breakthrough in the case.
It is not clear at this time what charges Sirika will face, but it is likely that he will be charged with money laundering and fraud.