Keyamo Wade’s Into Oshiomole, Air Peace Spat
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has stepped in to resolve the ongoing dispute between Air Peace and former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, following a heated confrontation at the Lagos Airport last Wednesday.
In a statement released on Friday, Keyamo confirmed that he has been in direct contact with both parties since the incident occurred and has instructed aviation agencies to exercise restraint and avoid making hasty conclusions.
“I have directed all aviation agencies to exercise restraint and adhere to the principle of hearing all sides before drawing conclusions,” the minister said.
The dispute between Air Peace and Oshiomhole began when the senator alleged that airline officials were extorting Nigerian passengers.
The situation escalated when Oshiomhole missed a flight, which he claimed was a result of racketeering activities by airline staff. Air Peace, however, maintained that Oshiomhole arrived at the airport late.
Keyamo has appealed for calm and urged both sides to desist from further accusations and counter-accusations. He has also ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident, directing relevant agencies to collect all available evidence and report to his office.
“This matter will be handled thoroughly and decisively. The outcome will help guide future conduct in similar situations,” Keyamo said.
The investigation is expected to shed more light on the incident, which has sparked a public debate about the treatment of passengers by airline officials.
According to Oshiomhole, he and about 20 to 30 other passengers were victims of the alleged extortion, with airline staff demanding an additional N109,100 to reschedule them to an 8:30 am flight. Air Peace has denied the allegations, but the minister’s intervention is seen as a move to resolve the dispute and prevent further escalation.
The incident has raised concerns about the welfare of passengers and the need for aviation agencies to ensure that airlines operate in a fair and transparent manner.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to have significant implications for the aviation industry and the treatment of passengers in Nigeria.
