Court Hears Allegations That Sirika Used Ethiopian Jet to Stage Nigeria Air Launch

In Abuja’s Federal High Court, EFCC investigator Christopher Odofin testified that an Ethiopian Airlines plane was chartered and branded as Nigeria Air for a two-day static display. The aircraft arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on May 27, 2023, three days before President Buhari’s term ended, and departed on May 29, the day President Tinubu was sworn in. Odofin explained that Ethiopian crew in their uniforms operated the flight while local models wore Nigeria Air outfits for photographs. He alleged the timing was intended to create the impression that Nigeria Air had become operational under former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika. The witness also revealed documents suggesting Sirika personally directed a separate contract award to Tianaero Nigeria Limited. Sirika, his daughter, son-in-law, and Al Buraq Global Investment Limited face six counts of abuse of office and misappropriation of over ₦2 billion. The trial resumes on June 17, 2026, for audio evidence playback.

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