By Arinze Uzo
Business News Correspondent
Nigerian airline Air Peace has strongly denied recent allegations of extortion leveled against it by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, describing the claims as “false, misleading, and damaging to the company’s hard-earned reputation.” The airline’s management issued a swift and firm rebuttal after the former Edo State governor and current senator publicly accused the airline of exploiting passengers with unapproved charges and unfair treatment.
The incident has sparked widespread debate across aviation, political, and consumer circles, raising questions about airline pricing, passenger experience, and the broader issue of accountability in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The Allegation
The controversy erupted when Senator Adams Oshiomhole, speaking at a public function and later reiterating his claims in media interviews, accused Air Peace of engaging in extortionist practices. According to the senator, the airline allegedly charged passengers exorbitant ticket fees and failed to offer adequate services, particularly on domestic routes.
Oshiomhole, a vocal advocate for consumer rights, claimed he had received multiple complaints from constituents and personal acquaintances who had experienced what he described as “systemic exploitation” by the airline. “Our people are being shortchanged,” he said, “and the authorities need to hold these operators accountable.”
The senator also took aim at what he called a lack of regulatory oversight, suggesting that airlines like Air Peace were capitalizing on poor enforcement mechanisms to impose unreasonable charges on unsuspecting travelers.
Air Peace Responds
In a strongly worded statement released by its corporate communications team, Air Peace rejected the accusations, calling them “unfortunate, baseless, and unsubstantiated.” The airline maintained that all its fares and service operations are in full compliance with regulations set by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
“We are shocked by the remarks made by Senator Oshiomhole, a respected national figure, whose public statements carry significant weight. However, it is important to set the record straight: Air Peace does not extort passengers, and we operate with the highest ethical standards,” the statement read.
The airline further explained that ticket prices are determined by a range of factors, including operational costs, demand and supply dynamics, route competitiveness, and prevailing economic conditions. The company added that these pricing models are standard in aviation industries worldwide.
Public and Industry Reactions
The back-and-forth between Senator Oshiomhole and Air Peace has triggered widespread reactions. Consumer rights advocates and aviation industry observers have weighed in, with some calling for a broader audit of airline pricing systems and others defending Air Peace’s role as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
Captain John Adeyemi, a retired commercial pilot and industry analyst, described Oshiomhole’s remarks as “politically charged and lacking technical grounding.” He noted, “It’s not unusual for public figures to raise concerns, but pricing in aviation is a complex issue. Air Peace has played a critical role in improving air connectivity and offering alternatives to Nigerians.”
Others, however, believe the allegations warrant further scrutiny, especially with recurring passenger complaints about high ticket prices across local carriers.
A History of Service and Controversy
Since its inception in 2013, Air Peace has grown rapidly to become one of Nigeria’s leading domestic and regional airlines. Known for its aggressive expansion strategy and pioneering efforts in connecting underserved cities, the airline has received both praise and criticism.
It has often defended its position as an indigenous carrier operating under harsh economic conditions, including rising fuel costs, foreign exchange volatility, and infrastructure constraints. While the airline has had occasional brushes with regulatory agencies and public opinion, its reputation has largely remained intact—until now.
Air Peace said it is considering legal action or seeking redress through appropriate channels if the senator does not retract his allegations.
The Bigger Picture
The unfolding dispute underscores the growing tension between public expectations and the economic realities facing private airlines in Nigeria. With the aviation sector still reeling from the effects of inflation, currency instability, and global oil market fluctuations, the cost of airline operations has skyrocketed. This, in turn, has affected ticket affordability for average Nigerians.
Industry experts are calling for more balanced discourse and factual clarity when addressing aviation-related concerns. Many believe this episode presents an opportunity for improved engagement between airlines, passengers, lawmakers, and regulators.
As the dust settles, both Air Peace and Senator Oshiomhole remain firm in their positions. The airline is adamant about protecting its integrity and operational transparency, while the senator maintains he is advocating for the ordinary Nigerian.
What is clear, however, is that the issue has struck a nerve—and reignited the national conversation on fairness, access, and ethics in Nigeria’s growing aviation sector.
