The former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, has been summoned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to face inquiries regarding the ongoing Nigeria Air Scandal that has sent shockwaves through the country.
Officials from the anti-corruption agency have already questioned individuals associated with Nigerian Air, the airline that recently made its debut in Abuja. Now, it is the minister’s turn to appear before the commission within the coming week to provide answers regarding the airline’s launch, particularly concerning the use of Ethiopian colors in its branding. The EFCC has already interrogated certain individuals believed to be affiliated with the national carrier.
When approached for comment, Wilson Uwujaren, the spokesman for the EFCC, confirmed the existence of an ongoing investigation but refrained from divulging further specifics. “I can confirm that there is an ongoing investigation in that regard,” he stated.
The Nigeria Air project reportedly incurred a cost of over N3 billion, although some stakeholders argue that the expenses exceeded N80 billion. The situation escalated for Sirika when the airline’s launch took place in Abuja utilizing an Ethiopian aircraft. In an interview on Arise TV earlier this week, the minister defended the decision, claiming it was a “Marketing Strategy.” However, this statement fueled additional controversy, leading to widespread calls from Nigerians for his immediate arrest and prosecution.
As the EFCC delves deeper into the Nigeria Air Scandal and summons Hadi Sirika, the gravity of the situation continues to grow. The scrutiny surrounding the airline’s launch and the potential misappropriation of funds underscores the nation’s commitment to combatting corruption and holding public officials accountable for their actions. The outcomes of this investigation will be closely monitored by the public, as they have significant implications for the integrity of the aviation sector and the fight against corruption in Nigeria as a whole.
