Air Peace has cleared the air on recent allegations surrounding the land meant for its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri, insisting that its Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, did not lie about paying ₦100 million for the project.
The clarification follows a report credited to the Traditional Ruler of Umueri, Igwe Emeka, suggesting that Onyema make false claims about the land transaction. But in a strong rebuttal issued by Air Peace management, the airline dismissed the claim as “unprovoked, baseless, and entirely misplaced.”
According to the statement, Air Peace never accused the Umueri community of any wrongdoing or claimed the community was involved in any dispute or payment regarding the MRO land.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Air Peace’s dealings on the MRO project were solely with the then Anambra State Government, not with any community or group,” the airline said.
Air Peace explained that it paid ₦100 million directly to the Anambra State Government for the land, and an official receipt dated August 26, 2021, was issued to confirm the transaction.
To further solidify its position, the airline noted that a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for the land was issued on September 14, 2021, completing the legitimate process of ownership.
The company described the circulating publication as a deliberate attempt to mislead and tarnish the image of Dr. Onyema, whom they hailed as a man of integrity with a transparent record of service to Nigeria.
“Dr. Onyema does not lie about anything. His integrity and passion for national development remain unquestionable. The publication is false, malicious, and defamatory,” the statement emphasized.
Air Peace reaffirmed that the MRO project remains a visionary initiative designed to boost Nigeria’s aviation industry, create jobs, and position the country as a leading hub for aircraft maintenance in Africa.
“Our focus remains on driving positive change, empowering Nigerians, and promoting excellence in all our operations,” the airline concluded.
The airline’s clarification puts to rest the controversy, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and progress amid efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.
The airline has reaffirmed that the ₦100 million payments for its MRO land in Anambra was made directly to the state government.
