In a surprising move that has left many passengers in disarray, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has ordered the grounding of Arik Air.
This decision, rooted in litigation issues with the airline’s creditors, has sparked significant concern and disruption across Nigeria’s air travel landscape.
The grounding order stems from a court verdict regarding a $2.5 million debt owed by Arik Air to Atlas Petroleum International Ltd.
The court had mandated the attachment of Arik’s aircraft, with a notice of public auction scheduled for July 26, 2024, if the judgment debt remained unpaid.
“All these were served on our agency and also on our Supervising Minister, the Minister of Aviation,” stated the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
In response, Arik Air’s management expressed their dismay at the abrupt decision. Captain Roy Ilegbodu, Chief Executive Officer of Arik Air, stated, “This decision, made without warning or consultation, has serious repercussions for our valued passengers, dedicated employees, and the broader Nigerian economy.”
“Our priority has always been to connect people and facilitate commerce, especially on critical domestic routes. The grounding of our fleet disrupts these vital services, leaving passengers stranded and inflating already high travel costs. This decision hurts everyday Nigerians who rely on our flights for business, family, and essential activities,” Ilegbodu continued.
He further elaborated on the ongoing legal battles, highlighting that, “On February 26, 2016, a judgment was made in favor of Atlas Petroleum International Limited and Engineer Arthur Eze. However, there is an ongoing case in the Federal High Court, where Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) is asserting its secured interest in Arik’s assets. Despite this, a writ of attachment was issued on July 18, 2024, targeting our aircraft. Subsequent to an originating motion filed by AMCON, the High Court of the FCT on July 25, 2024, clearly instructed all parties to maintain status quo. We therefore are perplexed as to the grounding of our fleet, which is an overreach of the ongoing judicial processes and directives of court.”
Ilegbodu stressed that this action “undermines the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent, prioritizing unsecured private interests over the public good and the rights of secured creditors.”
He urged the authorities to reconsider the grounding order, emphasizing Arik Air’s commitment to serving the public and supporting the economy.
Meanwhile, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has stepped in to assist stranded passengers. FAAN spokesperson Mrs. Obiageli Orah stated, “The Authority has instructed all airport managers across the country to assist the affected passengers as Arik Airline works out plans to rebook and transfer passengers to other available flights.”
Arik Air’s management remains committed to resolving the situation and has expressed deep regret for the inconvenience caused to their passengers.
“We stand with our passengers and employees during this challenging time and are working tirelessly to resolve this situation. Your support and understanding are greatly appreciated,” Ilegbodu concluded.