Hadi Sirika's Trial: Ethiopian Airlines Plane Allegations

Hadi Sirika, the former Minister of Aviation, is currently on trial at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, facing allegations related to the Nigeria Air project. On Wednesday, October 12, 2023, prosecuting witness Christoph Odofin disclosed that an Ethiopian Airlines aircraft was allegedly presented as a Nigeria Air plane for public display.

This occurred on May 27, 2023, just three days before the end of former President Muhammadu Buhari's administration. The aircraft remained at Abuja's Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport until May 28, 2023, before departing for Addis Ababa on May 29, 2023.

The EFCC has charged Sirika and three others with six counts, including the abuse of office and misappropriation of public funds exceeding N2 billion. The trial also involves Sirika's daughter, Fatima Hadi Sirika, and son-in-law, Hamma Jalal Sule, along with Al Buraq Global Investment Limited.

Documents presented in court indicated that the Ethiopian Airlines aircraft was scheduled for display under the Nigeria Air branding until its removal shortly before its departure.