Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest carrier, has firmly denied reports suggesting that its Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, made false claims about paying ₦100 million for land allocated for the airline’s proposed Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Anambra State.
In a statement released by the airline’s management, Air Peace described the allegations—credited to the Traditional Ruler of Umueri Community, Igwe Emeka—as “baseless, malicious, and misleading.” The company stressed that all transactions related to the MRO project were conducted directly with the Anambra State Government, not with any individual, community, or traditional authority.
According to the airline, payment for the land was made to the state government on August 26, 2021, with an official receipt confirming the ₦100 million transaction. The process was finalized when a Certificate of Occupancy was issued on September 14, 2021, establishing Air Peace’s legal ownership of the property. The airline emphasized that all relevant documents supporting the transaction are publicly verifiable, leaving no room for speculation or misinformation.
Air Peace further clarified that it never accused the Umueri community of any wrongdoing and has no dispute with the people of the area. The airline described the claims made by the monarch as “unprovoked and entirely unnecessary,” expressing disappointment that such unfounded narratives were being circulated despite the existence of verifiable records.
“Dr. Allen Onyema’s integrity—both personal and professional—remains unquestionable,” the airline’s statement read. “He has consistently demonstrated transparency, patriotism, and commitment to national development. The recent publication is clearly a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation and mislead the public.”
Reaffirming its dedication to the MRO project, Air Peace noted that the initiative stems from Dr. Onyema’s vision to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector, reduce capital flight, and generate employment opportunities. The airline described the facility as a “strategic national investment” that will position Nigeria as a leading aviation maintenance hub in Africa.
Air Peace concluded by urging the public to disregard misleading reports intended to discredit the company and its leadership, reiterating its focus on advancing projects that promote growth and sustainability in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
