Testimony Reveals Irregularities in Aviation Contracts
In the ongoing trial of Hadi Abubakar Sirika, former Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, prosecution witnesses presented evidence this week concerning irregularities in the awarding of consultancy contracts for a controversial aviation project in Nigeria. The testimonies, delivered at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, suggest that due process was overlooked in these contracts.
Allegations of Procurement Violations
Christopher Odfin, an investigator with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the twelfth witness for the prosecution, alleged that a consulting contract valued at NOK 898 million with Tiernero Nigeria Limited was processed in violation of public procurement laws. Odfin’s testimony underscored significant lapses in regulatory compliance during the contract award process.
Charges Against Sirika
Sirika faces six amended charges from the EFCC, including abuse of power and misappropriation of over NOK 2 billion in public funds. He is being tried alongside his daughter, Fatima Hadi Sirika, his son-in-law, Hamma Jalal Sule, and AL BURAK GLOBAL INVESTMENTS LIMITED.
Contract Details and Investigative Findings
During his testimony, Odfin detailed that the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development awarded an initial consultancy contract worth N299 million to Tianello Nigeria Limited, followed by a contract extension worth N599 million. The investigation revealed that the first contract was signed without securing the necessary no-objection certificate from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), while the extension allegedly occurred without the ministry’s consent.
Implications of BPP Interaction
According to Odfin, correspondence between the ministry and the BPP requested a no-objection certificate dated March 7, 2022. The ministry only received the BPP’s response on April 7, 2022, yet the contract was awarded to Tianello on April 4, raising questions about the legality of the contract process.
Connections and Payment Issues
Odfin also highlighted that Tianello Nigeria Limited, although registered in Nigeria, was only a year old at the time of its selection for the consultancy project. Notably, the entire contract amount was reportedly paid to the company despite no measurable outcomes stemming from the aviation initiative. The payments were made in several installments, with the N299 million consultant contract disbursed between May and July 2022 and the subsequent N599 million contract extension settled from October to December 2022.
Next Steps in the Trial
The prosecution planned to present a compact disc as evidence containing purported oral instructions from Sirika directing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry to award the contract to Tianello Nigeria Limited. However, technical difficulties delayed the playback of this material. Judge Sylvanas Origi has adjourned the trial, now set to resume on July 8 and 9.
Controversy Surrounding the Nigeria Airways Project
The Nigeria Airways Project, touted as a revival of the national airline, was initiated under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. This project has come under scrutiny due to claims of mismanagement and lack of transparency, particularly following the presentation of aircraft painted in Nigeria Airways colors shortly before the administration concluded. While the EFCC asserts that public funds were misallocated, the defendants maintain their innocence as the trial proceeds.
