Hadi Sirika, the former Minister of Aviation, has spent the second night in the detention of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Sirika is being alleged of involving in over N8,069,176,864.00 money laundering case while serving as Minister.
This development coincides with the launch of a probe by the anti-graft agency into suspected fraudulent activities linked to the failed Nigeria Air project.
Insiders within the EFCC, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Sirika has been extensively questioned regarding his involvement in the troubled Nigeria Air initiative, which has generated widespread controversy.
While the full extent of financial irregularities surrounding the project is yet to be determined, investigators are diligently pursuing leads.
It is anticipated that Sirika will face formal charges next week as the inquiry progresses.
Another source within the EFCC disclosed that Sirika, who spent Tuesday night at the agency’s Federal Capital Territory Command, remains under interrogation, indicating that the process is ongoing.
In a related development, the EFCC has previously unearthed alleged instances of contract fraud within the Aviation Ministry during Sirika’s tenure.
This includes the suspicious awarding of contracts to companies, one of which is reportedly owned by his younger brother, Abubakar Sirika.
Sirika’s arrival at the EFCC’s Federal Capital Territory Command on Tuesday, as witnessed by journalists correspondent, marked the beginning of his engagement with investigators.
He is currently addressing questions regarding the purportedly fraudulent contracts awarded during his time in office, particularly those involving Engirios Nigeria Limited, a company associated with his sibling.
The EFCC, in response to inquiries, affirmed Sirika’s presence in their custody and confirmed ongoing investigations into the alleged aviation ministry contract fraud, underscoring the seriousness of the matter.