In a recent development, Hadi Sirika, a former Minister of Aviation, along with his daughter, Fatima and son-in-law, Jalal Hamma, have been granted bail totaling N300 million in a case involving alleged fraud.
This decision came after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought charges against them, as learned by Beyond Boders.
The trio appeared before Justice Sylvanus Oriji of the FCT High Court to face accusations related to fraudulent activities linked to the Nigeria Air controversy.
Sirika who served as the Minister of Aviation under former President Muhammadu Buhari, stood accused of abusing his position for personal gain.
During the court session, the charges against Sirika, Fatima, and Jalal Hamma were read aloud, alleging misuse of authority to favour certain companies associated with them.
Despite the accusations, all three pleaded not guilty to the charges presented.
The legal team of the other defendants aligned with the submissions of Agabi, regarding bail, which stated, “We have prayed for grace for them not to run.
“Here is a former minister and former senator. It is an illusion if a former minister cannot go on bail in his own recognizance.”
The EFCC, represented by counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), emphasized the need for a swift trial and highlighted instances where the defendants failed to comply with administrative bail conditions previously set by the commission.
In response, Sirika’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi (SAN), advocated for bail terms that would not impede the defendants’ ability to attend court proceedings, citing their social standing and commitment to the legal process.
After considering arguments from both sides, the judge granted bail to each defendant in the sum of N100 million. Additionally, they were required to provide two sureties with property in Abuja, supported by a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) as evidence.
Furthermore, the judge imposed travel restrictions on the defendants and warned of remand in the Nigeria Correctional Service if bail conditions were not met.
The case is scheduled for trial on June 10th, 11th, and 20th, signaling a crucial phase in the legal proceedings surrounding the Nigeria Air scandal.
