Malami, Sirika under scrutiny as EFCC probes former ministers over multi-billion naira fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has shifted its focus towards former ministers who served in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, with allegations of multi-billion naira fraud hanging over their heads. 

According to reports, among those under scrutiny are close allies such as former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika and former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.

Both Sirika and Malami, prominent figures during Buhari’s tenure, face allegations ranging from distributing lavish gifts to illegally auctioning seized assets. 

Multiple petitions against him compound Malami’s case since his exit from office. The petitions include accusations of distributing expensive car gifts to supporters, illegally auctioning seized crude oil vessels, and mismanagement of recovered assets.

Similarly, Sirika is facing allegations of spending exorbitant amounts on projects like logo design and procurement of fire trucks during his tenure as Minister of Aviation. 

His younger brother, Abubakar Ahmad Sirika, was recently arrested over allegations of conspiracy, abuse of office, and diversion of public funds related to aviation contracts.

Following ongoing investigations, The EFCC is reportedly preparing to charge former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, along with other top ministry officials.