Former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, has denied reports that he was summoned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the EFCC had allegedly invited Sirika, urging him to appear before them during the week to address queries regarding the launch of Nigerian Air, an airline adorned in Ethiopian colours.
Furthermore, the anti-corruption agency had interrogated Nigerian Air officials in relation to the recent inauguration of the airline in Abuja.
In a telephone interview, Sirika refuted any knowledge of such an invitation. He said, “Well, perhaps they invited me in their imagination, but what I can confirm is that I met with the former chairman (Bawa) last week, and I have not received any invitation. If they wish to invite me, I am readily available.”
When questioned about his visit to Bawa, whether it was in response to an invitation or a personal initiative, he responded, “I did not receive any invitation from the EFCC, sir, that’s what I conveyed to you. I have not been summoned. If I am invited, it is neither newsworthy nor unimportant; I can attend whenever I am called upon.”
He added, “If they invite me today, I will honor the summons. As a former public servant, I am accountable for my actions. Public officials are answerable for their conduct. If the EFCC extends an invitation, I will comply. I have not received any such invitation. I am currently at my residence in Abuja, not Kaduna, and they are also situated here in Abuja.”
However, Wilson Uwujaren, the spokesperson for the EFCC, said Sirika had indeed been invited. Uwujaren stated, “Yes, I can confirm that he was invited. There is an ongoing investigation regarding this matter. I will not disclose further details until Sirika confirms his invitation.”
