Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has waded into the dispute between former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and Nigerian airline, Air Peace, following a heated confrontation at Lagos Airport on Wednesday.
In a statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, Keyamo confirmed that he has been in contact with both parties since the incident. He also directed all aviation agencies to remain neutral and avoid drawing premature conclusions.
“I have directed all aviation agencies to exercise restraint and adhere to the principle of hearing all sides before drawing conclusions,” the minister stated.
Tensions have escalated between Oshiomhole and Air Peace in recent days, with both sides trading accusations over what the senator described as the extortion of passengers. Keyamo has urged calm and appealed to both parties to halt public allegations and counter-allegations.
He further ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident, instructing aviation agencies to gather all relevant evidence and submit a report to his office.
“This matter will be handled thoroughly and decisively,” Keyamo assured. “The outcome will help guide future conduct in similar situations.”
The controversy began when Oshiomhole reportedly missed his flight, which he blamed on what he alleged to be racketeering by airline staff. According to him, around 20 to 30 other passengers were also affected, claiming they were asked to pay an additional ₦109,100 each to be rescheduled for a later 8:30 am flight.
Air Peace, however, countered that Oshiomhole arrived at the airport late and that boarding had already closed. The airline denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that all procedures were followed properly.
The incident has sparked wider public debate over the conduct of airline staff and the treatment of passengers at Nigerian airports.
