EFCC Freezes Sirika’s Account See Why

ABUJA, iexclusivenews – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has placed a freeze on the bank account of Abubakar Ahmad Sirika, brother of former Minister of Aviation Hadi Sirika, amidst allegations of an N8.06 billion contract scam within the ministry.

This development follows the arrest of Abubakar Sirika for suspected fraud involving N3.2 billion and his company, Engirios Nigeria Limited.

Contracts, Arrest, and Questions: Unraveling the Allegations

The crux of the investigation revolves around four contracts awarded to Engirios Nigeria Limited during Hadi Sirika’s tenure as Aviation Minister.

These contracts, totaling N8.06 billion, allegedly remain unfulfilled:

–Construction of Katsina Airport Terminal Building (N1.3 billion): No construction activity has been observed at the site.

–Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre, Katsina Airport (N3.8 billion): No such center has been established.

–Procurement and Installation of Equipment in Aviation House, Abuja (N615 million): Elevators, air conditioners, and a power generator house are reportedly absent.

–Procurement of Magnus Aircraft and Simulator for Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (N2.3 billion): Neither the aircraft nor the simulator have been acquired.

Investigators claim to have traced N3.2 billion from the contracts to Engirios, with Abubakar Sirika acting as the company’s Managing Director and sole signatory.

Furthermore, the funds allegedly underwent suspicious transfers to other companies and individuals.

Adding another layer to the complexity, Abubakar Sirika also holds a position as a Level-16 officer and Deputy Director in the Ministry of Water Resources, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

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Beyond the Freeze: The Shadow of Nigeria Air and Public Scrutiny

While the probe focuses on Abubakar Sirika and Engirios, the involvement of Hadi Sirika as the former Aviation Minister casts a long shadow.

This is further amplified by his association with the controversial Nigeria Air project, which was abruptly cancelled amidst accusations of financial mismanagement.

The EFCC’s actions have ignited public scrutiny, demanding transparency and accountability in government contracts.

The questions remain: Will the frozen account reveal further evidence of wrongdoing? Did Hadi Sirika have any knowledge or involvement in his brother’s alleged activities?

And will there be further arrests or actions taken in the ongoing investigation?

As the probe unfolds, Nigerians await answers that can restore trust in the integrity of government contracts and ensure that public funds are utilized for their intended purposes.

Only time will tell if the EFCC’s investigation can deliver the clarity and justice the public seeks.