The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) initiates a case of alleged N2.6 billion fraud against former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, and three others. Alongside Sirika, the defendants include his daughter, Fatima; Jalal Sule Hamma, and Al-Duraq Investment Limited. They face charges related to abuse of office and contract fraud.
Testimony of Witness:
Azubuike Okorie, a retired staff of the Federal Ministry of Aviation, serves as the first witness (PW1) for the prosecution. Okorie, who held positions including Director of Procurement and Special Assistant to the Minister for Projects, testifies regarding his responsibilities in project monitoring and evaluation. He provides insights into the processes of project implementation and the role of the Project Implementation Committee.
Contractual Allegations:
During his testimony, Okorie disassociates himself and his committee from the awarding of contracts, stating they were not directly involved in such decisions. He discusses documents pertaining to project lists and acknowledges the presence of N800 million allocated to Al-Duraq Global Investment Limited for Apron Expansion, highlighting the company’s supposed involvement.
Project Monitoring and Execution:
Okorie recounts interactions with Al-Duraq Global Investment during project monitoring visits to Kastina airport. He notes discrepancies in the presence of contracted companies on-site and expresses uncertainty about the execution status of the contract by the time of his departure from civil service.
Payment Discrepancies:
Regarding payments, Okorie clarifies his limited knowledge, stating awareness only of the 30 percent mobilization fee paid to the defendants. He emphasizes his lack of involvement in payment processes and suggests payments were made in stages according to his understanding.
Legal Proceedings:
Defense counsels, including Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, and Mahmoud Magaji, SAN, request adjournment to review the case documents. The prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, does not oppose the request, leading to the adjournment of the trial until the following day for cross-examination and further proceedings.
The unfolding legal proceedings shed light on allegations of financial misconduct within the aviation sector, implicating high-profile figures including a former minister. As the case progresses, scrutiny intensifies on the intricacies of contract awarding, project execution, and financial transactions within government agencies.
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Written by Doris Chinwe Omemgbeoji