Crime
JUST IN: Hadi Sirika, Daughter Pleads not guilty to contract scam, Court grants Bail
The case involving former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika, his daughter Fatima, and two others, regarding an alleged contract fraud of N2.7 billion, is a significant development. Here’s a summary:
- The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought charges against Hadi Sirika, his daughter Fatima, his son-in-law Jalal Hamma, and Al-Duraq Global Investment Limited at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory.
- They have all pleaded not guilty to the allegations.
- Among the charges, it’s alleged that Sirika conferred unfair advantage by illegally awarding consultancy contracts to Tianaero Nigeria Limited for the startup of Air Nigeria and its extension. It’s claimed that Prof. Gabriel Tillman, an associate of Sirika, is the alter ego of Tianaero Nigeria Limited.
- Tianaero Nigeria Limited received N1.3 billion for its consultancy services for Air Nigeria.
- The charge sheet also includes allegations that Sirika awarded a contract for the construction of the apron of the Katsina Airport to Al-Duraq Global Investment Limited, which is owned by his daughter and son-in-law. This contract is valued at approximately N1.4 billion.
This case brings to light accusations of corruption and nepotism in the awarding of contracts, particularly in the aviation sector. It’s a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in government dealings. The trial will likely be closely watched to see how it unfolds and what implications it may have.
Meanwhile,
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja has granted bail to former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika and two others in the sum of N100 million each. Here’s a summary:
- Hadi Sirika, along with his daughter Fatima Hadi Sirika and his son-in-law Jalal Hamma, were arraigned for contract fraud amounting to N2.7 billion. They denied the six-count charge leveled against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
- The trial judge, Sylvanus Oriji, granted bail to the accused persons, with each required to provide two sureties in like sum. One of the sureties must own a duly certified landed property in the FCT.
- Failure to meet the conditions for bail will result in remand in the Correctional Centre.
- Among the charges against Hadi Sirika is conferring unfair advantage by illegally awarding a consultancy contract to Tianaero Nigeria Limited for the startup of Air Nigeria. It’s alleged that Prof. Gabriel Tillman, an associate of Sirika, is the alter ego of Tianaero Nigeria Limited. Tianaero received N1.3 billion for its services.
- Additionally, Sirika is accused of influencing the award of a contract to Al-Duraq Global Investment Limited, owned by his daughter and son-in-law, for the Apron Extension at the Katsina Airport. The contract is valued at N1.48 billion.
The trial has been adjourned till the 10th, 11th, and 20th for further proceedings. This case highlights the alleged involvement of high-ranking officials in corruption and underscores the need for accountability and transparency in government operations.
Crime
Police Arrest 32 Suspected Bandits in Kwara Forest Crackdowns
the operation targeted criminal hideouts in forest areas around Awi, Kaiama, Patigi, and Babanla, where the suspects were allegedly involved in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other violent crimes
Photo: IGP Tunji Disu
The Kwara State Police Command has arrested thirty two suspected bandits during intelligence-led operations targeting criminal networks operating in forest corridors across the state.
The police said that two of those arrested are foreign nationals from Niger Republic who are suspected to have collaborated with local bandits in cross-border criminal activities.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, disclosed that the suspects were apprehended during coordinated raids carried out by operatives of the Kwara State Police Command and detectives of the Intelligence Response Team.
The police assures that the suspects will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.
She explained that the operation targeted criminal hideouts in forest areas around Awi, Kaiama, Patigi, and Babanla, where the suspects were allegedly involved in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other violent crimes.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, during an operational visit to Kaiama, commended officers of the command and the Intelligence Response Team for what he described as a successful operation against forest-based criminal gangs.
Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Friday 6, at Eha-Amufu and Umuhu in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Enugu State, arrested a suspected notorious Eastern Security Network (ESN) commander, Sabastine Odo Odam, and Ejike Daniel, a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Security sources revealed that the arrest followed months of sustained intelligence gathering on activities of the suspects.
The arrests came on the heels of series of violent attacks on police stations and killings between 2024 and 2026, all in Isi-Uzo LGA.
“Both men have confessed to being masterminds of a chain of attacks on police stations and carting away of weapons. The attacks include the February 26 killing of 11 labourers, and that of five policeman between December 24, 2025 and January 26, 2026.
“The arrests represent a major success for the DSS in the fight against insecurity in the southeast and country at large,” remarked the source.
Residents of Isi-Uzo LGA expressed excitement as news of the arrests filtered in. Many noted that the arrests will restore some peace to the affected communities.
Both suspects are currently in the custody of the DSS and awaiting arraignment in court, the source added.
A Federal High Court in Abuja has discharged and acquitted suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari of a 23-count charge alleging non-declaration of assets, brought by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
In a judgment delivered on Thursday, March 5, 2026, Justice James Omotosho ruled that the prosecution failed to establish its case beyond reasonable doubt against Kyari and his co-defendants, including his two brothers.
The judge held that the NDLEA did not provide sufficient evidence to prove that the disputed properties allegedly linked to Kyari belonged to him or that he failed to declare them. He described aspects of the case as unsubstantiated and lacking credible proof.
This acquittal pertains specifically to the asset declaration and related allegations. Kyari continues to face separate ongoing charges, including those related to drug trafficking matters.
Kyari, once celebrated as a top police investigator, has been suspended amid multiple legal battles. The ruling marks a significant development in one of his high-profile cases.
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