Former Aviation Minister Hadi Abubakar Sirika refuted allegations of corrupt practices involving approximately N4.135 billion, as brought against him by the federal government, during his appearance at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Thursday.
Sirika, alongside his daughter Fatima, son-in-law Jalal Sule Hamma, and the firm Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, stood before Justice Sylvanus Oriji to address the charges.
Both Fatima and Jalal Sule Hamma pleaded not guilty to the six counts presented against them.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) initiated the trial on behalf of the federal government.
Upon their denial of the allegations, their legal representatives applied for bail, which Justice Oriji granted. The bail sum was set at N100 million each, with two sureties required for each defendant, possessing verifiable home addresses. Additionally, one of the sureties must own landed property with a certificate of occupancy endorsed by the FCT Minister.
Furthermore, the judge mandated that the defendants seek court permission before travelling abroad.
Should they fail to meet the bail conditions, Justice Oriji ordered their remand in prison custody until bail requirements are fulfilled.
The trial for the defendants is scheduled for June 11.
