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
More Than 23 Terrorists Killed in Boko Haram-ISWAP Clash in Sambisa (Video)
More than 23 terrorists have been killed in renewed fighting between rival Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) factions in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State, security sources say.
The latest clashes erupted around the Chingolo axis of Bama Local Government Area after Boko Haram fighters attacked ISWAP members advancing into the area. The fighting forms part of a fresh wave of hostilities that began about two days ago.
A video obtained by Zagazola Makama shows sustained exchanges of fire as both groups tried to consolidate positions and block the other from expanding influence inside the forest.
Preliminary intelligence puts the death toll at more than 23 on both sides since the latest round began, though exact figures for each faction could not be independently verified.
The violence underscores the ongoing rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP over territory, access routes, resources and control of fighters in Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas. The confrontation has further weakened both groups and disrupted their activities in a long-standing insurgent stronghold.
Security forces are closely monitoring the situation and exploiting intelligence on the factions’ movements. The military continues to target terrorist concentrations, logistics networks and hideouts across the North-East as part of efforts to degrade the insurgents.
Officials have urged communities near the forest to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements. The situation remains fluid, with further clashes possible as both sides seek to reposition and reinforce their fighters.
Watch video below:
Crime
10 Out of 15 Abducted NYSC Members Rescued in Kogi (Video)
The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed that 10 of the 15 National Youth Service Corps members abducted by suspected bandits along the Aloma–Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area have been rescued.
Commissioner of Police Naziru Bello Kankarofi said security operatives are combing surrounding forests and intensifying efforts to free the remaining victims.

He dismissed reports that the 10 rescued corps members were among the 11 persons freed during a joint security operation last week, clarifying that those earlier rescued were other travellers caught up in the same kidnapping incident.

The commissioner added that several suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack.
Watch the video below:
Crime
JUST IN: Terrorists kill 4, abduct others in Gorau after boat tragedy
Suspected terrorists killed four people, abducted four others and injured several more in an attack on Gorau town in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State on Wednesday night.
The attackers invaded the community around 9pm and shot 11 residents, according to the village head, Alhaji Aliyu Magaji Na-Batsami. Seven of those shot survived and were rushed to hospital for treatment, while four died instantly.
The assault came barely six days after a boat accident claimed 65 lives in the same community. Na-Batsami said the terrorists specifically targeted families of the boat mishap victims over the N1 million relief money donated by the Sokoto State Government to each bereaved family. He said the bandits went from house to house searching for the cash.
Bashir Usman Gorau, the member representing Gada/Goronyo Federal Constituency, confirmed the incident and offered condolences to the affected families.
Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer of the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmad Rufai, were unsuccessful as calls were not returned at the time of filing this report.
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