By Francis Ajuonuma
The Management of Air Peace Limited is confident that justice will prevail over an expanded charge brought against its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Allen Onyema, by the United States authorities.
Onyema has been accused of obstructing justice by allegedly submitting false documents to halt a federal investigation.
According to charges filed by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Air Peace Chief of Finance and Administration, Mrs. Ejiro Eghagha, is also charged with participating in the obstruction scheme and the earlier bank fraud counts.
Reacting to the development, Air Peace’s management, in a statement yesterday, explained that the charges brought against its post-holders are part of an extended legal process stemming from earlier accusations of financial misdeeds dating back several years.
The airline’s management insists that both Onyema and Eghagha remain innocent as they are mere allegations, and they are still in court.
The statement read, “Air Peace Limited is aware of the recent media reports concerning our esteemed Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, and Chief of Finance and Administration, Mrs. Ejiro Eghagha, in line with the latest legal charges filed by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
“While the charges have been expanded, it is essential to emphasize that both Onyema and Eghagha remain innocent, and these are mere allegations, and the case is still in court.
“Our legal team is fully engaged with the matter and working tirelessly to ensure justice prevails. We remain confident that, through due process, the truth will be revealed, and our CEO and co-defendant will be exonerated.
“It is important to note that Onyema and his legal team have consistently cooperated with authorities throughout this process. Air Peace continues to operate without disruption, upholding our commitment to delivering top-notch services to our valued customers.
“Management reassures the public that the legal proceedings will not impact the airline’s safety, reliability, or day-to-day operations.
“The dedication and focus of our staff remain steadfast as we continue to provide you with the best aviation experience in Nigeria and beyond.
Onyema and Eghagha have been under investigation for alleged money laundering since 2019, and the Air Peace boss has insisted that he is innocent of all the charges levelled against him.”
