A Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja, has postponed its ruling on an application seeking to halt the ongoing trial of former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, until the final judgment in the case is delivered.
Justice S.C. Oriji made the decision on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, during proceedings in the alleged N2.8 billion contract fraud case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Sirika is being prosecuted alongside his daughter, Fatima Hadi Sirika, and his son-in-law, Hamma Jalal Sule, over a revised six-count charge relating to alleged fraudulent contract awards. The EFCC alleges that contracts valued at over N2.8 billion were awarded to Al Buraq Global Investment Limited, a company linked to the former minister’s daughter.
During the session, counsel to the third defendant, Sanusi Musa (SAN), asked the court to stop the prosecution from presenting further evidence, strike out already tendered exhibits, and dismiss the charges. He argued that the prosecution’s case was based on what he described as an incomplete investigation.
However, EFCC counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), opposed the request, stating that under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, the prosecution is allowed to present additional evidence at any stage before judgment. He further noted that appellate courts have upheld similar procedures in previous rulings.
In his ruling, Justice Oriji referenced relevant provisions of the ACJA, explaining that while defendants can challenge charges before judgment, such objections may also be determined alongside the main case.
The judge held that the issues raised in the application were closely tied to the substance of the trial and should be considered together with the final judgment.
He therefore directed that the ruling on the application be delivered alongside the judgment in the main case.
The matter was adjourned to June 10, 2026, for continuation of trial proceedings.
