Gladness Gideon
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has stepped in to mediate the ongoing dispute between Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Air Peace following a confrontation at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, last Wednesday.
In a statement posted via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, the minister confirmed he had spoken with both parties and directed aviation agencies to maintain neutrality while the matter is under review.
“I have directed all aviation agencies to exercise restraint and adhere to the principle of hearing all sides before drawing conclusions,” Keyamo stated, urging all parties involved to remain calm and avoid escalating tensions with further accusations.
The minister also announced that a comprehensive investigation has been launched to uncover the facts surrounding the incident. He instructed relevant aviation agencies to gather all necessary evidence and submit a detailed report to his office.
“This matter will be handled thoroughly and decisively. The outcome will help guide future conduct in similar situations,” he said.
READ ALSO: Air Peace Denies Extortion, Challenges Oshiomhole with CCTV Proof
The incident, which has drawn public attention, stems from a disagreement between Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State and serving senator, and officials of Air Peace, over what he described as the “extortion and mistreatment” of Nigerian passengers.
According to Oshiomhole, he missed his scheduled flight due to alleged racketeering by airline staff, who, he claimed, were prioritising passengers who paid additional fees. He said he and several other passengers—estimated at 20 to 30—were asked to pay N109,100 each to be moved to a later flight, despite arriving on time.
In its response, Air Peace stated that Senator Oshiomhole arrived after the check-in deadline, and the airline followed standard operating procedures. However, the senator countered that passengers who arrived later were allowed on board after allegedly making payments to staff.
As public debate over the incident continues, Keyamo’s intervention seeks to de-escalate tensions and ensure a transparent resolution process. His call for calm and adherence to due process has been welcomed by observers who view the case as a litmus test for passenger rights and accountability in Nigeria’s aviation sector.