A startling revelation has emerged that Hadi Sirika, the former Minister of Aviation, allegedly proceeded with the controversial launch of Nigeria Air in its final days despite being advised against it by the presidency.
This claim was made by Laolu Akande, a prominent journalist and former spokesperson for ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, during a segment on Channels Television on Thursday.
The Nigeria Air project, which culminated in a much-criticized display of a branded aircraft in May 2023, just days before the end of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, has been widely labeled a “fraud” by aviation experts and lawmakers alike.
Akande’s Revelation
Akande, known for his insider knowledge of the previous administration, stated that the presidency had counseled Sirika to shelve the launch due to a lack of due process and transparency.
There was an instruction not to do it. The then aviation minister was told not to go ahead with the launch of Nigeria Air, but he did anyway because it was supposed to be a private sector initiative.
This allegation suggests that the launch was not just a rushed effort but a deliberate act of insubordination. It raises further questions about the motives behind presenting an aircraft leased from Ethiopian Airlines, painted in Nigeria Air’s livery, as a flagship carrier for the nation.
Fallout from the Launch
The event triggered national outrage and an immediate investigation by the House of Representatives. The current Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has since suspended the entire Nigeria Air project, calling it a sham that “lacked transparency.”
Keyamo confirmed that the entire process, including the controversial partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, would be thoroughly investigated.
More details shortly..
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