A new controversy erupted after the Traditional Ruler of Umueri Community, Igwe Emeka, issued a media release challenging Air Peace over the ₦100 million Maintenance Repair and Overhaul, MRO land connected to the airline’s planned Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility in Anambra State.
In his statement, Igwe Emeka reportedly denied knowledge of any transaction involving Air Peace, suggesting that neither he nor the Umueri community received money for land within their domain. His comments, which spread quickly across social and digital platforms, created confusion about who received the payment for the project site at the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri.
However, Air Peace Management swiftly released a detailed response, describing the royal statement as misinformed, unnecessary, and completely misplaced. The airline explained that all transactions concerning the ₦100 million MRO land were conducted solely with the Anambra State Government and not with any traditional ruler or community.
Air Peace also released confirmation of payment with the receipt issued August 26, 2021.
The payment of ₦100 million was made directly to the Anambra State Government for the MRO land. The payment for the MRO land was officially acknowledged with a government-issued receipt confirming full settlement for the designated parcel. The company also noted that this documentation remains verifiable and transparent for public scrutiny.
To reinforce its position, Air Peace provided evidence that a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) covering the same parcel of land was issued by the government on September 14, 2021, officially completing the legal process of allocation and ownership. The management stressed that these documents prove the integrity of the transaction and confirm that the airline’s acquisition followed due process.
Air Peace further emphasized that neither its Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, nor any representative of the airline had ever made negative remarks or accusations against the Umueri community. At no time, it said, was there a suggestion that the community refused allocation, received funds, or engaged in any dispute with the company.
The airline maintained that the Igwe’s release stemmed from a misunderstanding of facts since Air Peace never negotiated or transacted directly with any traditional institution regarding the MRO land.
The airline described the monarch’s public statement as an unnecessary provocation that misrepresented the company’s genuine efforts to invest in the state’s aviation infrastructure.
In its response, Air Peace also defended Dr. Onyema’s personal and professional integrity. It said that describing him as dishonest was false, malicious, and defamatory. The company insisted that Dr. Onyema has maintained a spotless reputation built on transparency, patriotism, and a deep commitment to national progress. His record of contributions to Nigeria’s aviation growth, it added, is widely recognised.
Air Peace reaffirmed that the MRO project in Anambra remains a strategic investment designed to create hundreds of jobs, strengthen Nigeria’s aviation maintenance capability, and reduce dependence on foreign facilities. The MRO land, according to the airline, reflects Dr. Onyema’s long-term vision of making Nigeria a leading aircraft maintenance hub in Africa.
While expressing disappointment at the misleading publication, the airline said it would not allow distractions or false narratives to derail its focus. “Our goal is to advance Nigeria’s aviation potential, empower citizens, and promote operational excellence. We will remain committed to this national mission despite attempts to distort the truth,” Air Peace concluded.
