Air Peace has reiterated that its Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, remains innocent in light of new charges brought against him by the U.S. Department of Justice. The charges, which also involve the airline’s Chief of Administration and Finance, Ejiroghene Eghagha, are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct dating back several years.
In a statement released on Sunday, October 13, 2024, the airline reassured the public that these legal proceedings will not impact its daily operations. “While the charges have been expanded, it is essential to emphasize that both Dr. Onyema and Mrs. Eghagha remain innocent. These are mere allegations, and the case is still in court,” the statement read.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia recently filed a superseding indictment, accusing Onyema and Eghagha of submitting false documents in an attempt to obstruct the investigation. The charges also involve laundering over $20 million through U.S. bank accounts under the guise of purchasing aircraft, with Eghagha facing additional charges of aggravated identity theft.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, Air Peace expressed confidence in the legal process. “Our legal team is fully on top of the matter. We are confident that through due process, the truth will be revealed, and our CEO and co-defendant will be exonerated,” the airline said.
The management also reassured customers and stakeholders that the legal issues would not affect the company’s operations. “These legal proceedings will not affect the safety, reliability, or the day-to-day operations of Air Peace,” the statement concluded.
