The trial of former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, and three others over an alleged ₦19.4 billion fraud was stalled on Monday at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, following the absence of prosecution counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

The matter had been scheduled for the defence to cross-examine the third prosecution witness, Isaiah Yesufu, Director of Compliance at the Bureau of Public Procurement.

When the case was called, Joseph Kwahar appeared holding the brief of Sirika’s counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN.

Counsel for the second defendant, Hafiz Matanmi, informed the court that the defence had received a letter from the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, requesting that Monday’s proceedings be vacated.

According to the defence, the prosecution nevertheless indicated that it wanted the trial to continue on Tuesday.

There was no objection from the defence team.

Justice Suleiman Belgore consequently adjourned the matter until Tuesday for the continuation of the trial and cross-examination of Yesufu.

Sirika is standing trial alongside his younger brother, Ahmad Abubakar, and two companies, Al-Buraq Limited and Enginos Nigeria Limited.

They are facing a 10-count charge filed by the EFCC bordering on alleged abuse of office, criminal breach of trust and use of position for gratification.

The anti-graft agency alleges that Sirika, while serving as Minister of Aviation, awarded various contracts to his younger brother through the companies to the tune of about ₦19.4 billion.

The defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

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