Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, and his daughter, Fatimah, faced the legal heat as the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja imposed a travel ban on them amidst allegations of a staggering N2.7 billion fraud.
Justice Sylvanus Orji delivered the ruling, forbidding Sirika, Fatimah, and son-in-law Jalal Hamma from leaving the country until the conclusion of their trial for alleged financial misconduct.
The charges, brought forth by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), include six counts related to the said fraud, with Al-Buraq Investment Ltd also implicated.
Among the accusations, Sirika stands accused of abusing his office by awarding a ₦1.3 billion consultancy contract for the Nigerian Air Start-up to Tianero Nigeria Limited, contrary to anti-corruption laws.
In addition, the EFCC alleges Sirika used his position to confer undue advantage upon Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, involving contracts at Katsina Airport, further violating legal statutes.
The defendants entered pleas of not guilty, prompting the court to grant bail, set at ₦100 million each, with stringent conditions including possession of landed property in the Federal Capital Territory and a travel prohibition without court consent.
Justice Orji warned of detention in a correctional facility should the bail terms remain unmet, setting trial dates for June 10, 11, and 20.
