May 10, 2024 - The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja issued a travel ban on Thursday against the former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, his daughter, Fatimah, and son-in-law, Jalal Hamma, in light of their ongoing trial for alleged involvement in a N2.7 billion fraud.
Presiding Justice Sylvanus Orji ruled that the accused must remain within the country until the conclusion of the case. The court action follows their arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on multiple charges related to financial misconduct during Sirika's tenure as minister.
The allegations include the improper award of a N1.3 billion consultancy contract to Tianero Nigeria Limited for the Nigerian Air Start-up and a N1.498 billion contract for the Apron Extension at Katsina Airport to Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, a company linked to Sirika's daughter and son-in-law. These actions are claimed to violate the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
During the court session, all defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Following their plea, the defense, led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), successfully secured bail for each defendant at N100 million with stringent conditions. The conditions stipulate that each must provide two sureties with significant assets within the Federal Capital Territory, and are barred from leaving the country without judicial approval.
Justice Orji emphasized that failure to meet these conditions would result in detention at a correctional facility. The trial dates have been set for June 10, 11, and 20, as the court proceeds with the case that has drawn significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the allegations and the individuals involved.
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