Air Peace Speaks On Fresh Money Laundering Charges Against CEO, Allen Onyema

Air Peace Limited has dismissed the allegation of its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, and Chief of Finance and Administration, Ejiro Eghagha, who the United States has charged with alleged obstruction of justice.

Naija News reported that both Onyema and Eghagha have been under scrutiny since 2019 for alleged money laundering.

The Air Peace CEO is accused of moving over $20 million from Nigeria through U.S. bank accounts using fraudulent documents under the guise of purchasing airplanes.

Eghagha is also facing aggravated identity theft charges related to the scheme.

Responding to the latest charge of justice obstruction, Air Peace, in a statement on Sunday, insisted that the duo are innocent of all accusations.

The airline noted that the latest charges against Onyema and Eghagha are part of an extended legal process stemming from earlier accusations of financial misdeeds that date back several years.

It added that its legal team are fully engaged with the matter and working tirelessly to ensure justice prevails.

The statement reads, “Air Peace Limited is aware of the recent media reports concerning our esteemed Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema and Chief of Finance and Administration, Mrs Ejiro Eghagha in line with the latest legal charges filed by the U.S. Department of Justice. We understand that this may have raised concerns, and we wish to address these reports directly.

“These charges levelled against our post-holders are part of an extended legal process stemming from earlier accusations of financial misdeeds that date back several years.

“While the charges have been expanded, it is essential to emphasize that both Dr. Onyema and Mrs. Eghagha remain innocent and these are mere allegations, and the case is still in court. Our legal team is fully engaged with the matter and is working tirelessly to ensure that justice prevails. We remain confident that, through due process, the truth will be revealed, and our CEO and co-defendant will be exonerated.

“It is important to note that Dr. Onyema and his legal team have consistently cooperated with authorities throughout this process, and Air Peace continues to operate without disruption, upholding our commitment to delivering top-notch services to our valued customers.

“We want to reassure the public that these legal proceedings will not impact the safety, reliability, or day-to-day operations of Air Peace. The dedication and focus of our staff remain steadfast as we continue to provide you with the best aviation experience in Nigeria and beyond.

“We thank our customers and flying public for your continued support and understanding during this time, and we remain committed to serving you with excellence and integrity.”