The Concerned Northern Forum has demanded the urgent arrest and comprehensive investigation of former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, regarding the Nigerian Air scandal.
In a statement issued by the forum’s Chairman, Ali Muhammad, it was emphasized that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should promptly apprehend Hadi Sirika and all other alleged accomplices involved in deceiving Nigeria and bringing disgrace upon the nation in the eyes of the international community.
The statement referred to the recent revelation made by the interim Managing Director of the so-called “Nigerian Airline,” Captain Dapo Olumide, during his appearance before the Senate Committee on Aviation. Captain Dapo disclosed that the aircraft used for the unveiling of Nigeria Air was rented from Ethiopian Airlines. The forum expressed concern that the unveiling was hastily conducted without providing any details or visible features of the plane.
Furthermore, Captain Dapo revealed that the airline had not yet obtained an operating license for full flight operations, contradicting earlier claims made by former Minister Hadi Sirika.
The forum lamented that Hadi Sirika stubbornly proceeded with the Nigerian Air unveiling, despite a court order opposing the matter. They described the project as “half-baked,” built on lies, deception, corruption, and personal financial gains for the Minister, amounting to billions of Naira.
The statement emphasized that such deception and breach of trust should not go unpunished, and Hadi Sirika must be held accountable before the law. It further highlighted that proceeding with matters against the orders of a competent court of law displayed a disregard for the rule of law and the justice system as a whole.
The forum alleged that Hadi Sirika had repeatedly acted with impunity, operating as a tyrant Minister who disregarded the advice of aviation experts and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), who had advised against the Nigerian Air project.
According to the statement, the national embarrassment and wastage of resources incurred could have been avoided if Hadi Sirika had heeded advice.
The forum called on President Tinubu not to consider Hadi Sirika for any ministerial or administrative appointment in his administration.
