Air Peace CEO Onyema Indicted on Fraud and Obstruction Charges
Allen Onyema, the founder and CEO of Nigeria's Air Peace airline, has recently been charged with serious offenses, including obstruction of justice, bank fraud, and money laundering. These developments add to an ongoing legal saga that dates back to 2019 when both Onyema and Ejiroghene Eghagha, the airline's Chief of Finance and Administration, were first indicted. The Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia announced the new charges, alleging that the pair engaged in deceptive practices to impede a federal investigation.
According to the press release, the latest charges arise from accusations that Onyema "submitted false documents to the government in an effort to end an investigation" linked to earlier fraud allegations. Onyema, aged 61, and Eghagha, 42, allegedly orchestrated a scheme that involved transferring over $20 million from Nigeria to the United States under false pretenses. Prosecutors assert they manipulated documents about purchasing five Boeing 737 aircraft to execute this plan.
The indictment claims that Onyema and Eghagha provided fraudulent export letters of credit and supporting agreements to justify the transactions. However, investigators contend that these documents were fabricated. "The aircraft that was referenced in each of the export letters of credit was never owned or sold by Springfield Aviation," the indictment states. The Georgia-based firm allegedly selling the planes was reportedly owned by Onyema himself and managed by an individual with no aviation background.
After the money was successfully transferred to U.S. accounts, Onyema is accused of laundering over $16 million by moving these funds to various accounts. During the ongoing investigation, Onyema allegedly instructed the manager of Springfield Aviation to sign an undated contract. His attorneys later dated this document retroactively and presented it to authorities to manipulate the investigation and unfreeze bank accounts.
In response to these grave allegations, Air Peace's management issued a statement affirming the innocence of Onyema and Eghagha. "While the charges have been expanded, it is essential to emphasize that both Dr. Onyema and Mrs. Eghagha remain innocent," the airline stated. The management reassured its customers that the legal proceedings would not disrupt the airline's operations.
"We understand that this may have raised concerns, and we wish to address these reports directly," the airline said, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining service quality. The airline has reassured customers that its operations will continue as usual, stating, "Our dedication and focus remain steadfast as we continue to provide you with the best aviation experience in Nigeria and beyond."
Ryan Buchanan, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, expressed that Onyema "allegedly leveraged his status as a prominent business leader and airline executive while using falsified documents to commit fraud." He added that Onyema and Eghagha's actions reflected a calculated attempt to obstruct justice and derail the investigation into their initial conduct.
Despite the serious nature of these allegations, Air Peace maintains that its operational integrity remains intact. "The safety, reliability, or day-to-day operations of Air Peace will not be impacted," the airline reassured its customers, highlighting the resilience and dedication of its staff.
In addition to the legal troubles, Onyema has also been in the spotlight for other reasons. Earlier this year, he welcomed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during their visit to Nigeria, raising the Air Peace profile.
The U.S. Department of Justice further alleges that funds used to purchase aircraft for Air Peace may have been sourced from questionable accounts associated with various non-profit organizations. "Over $3 million of the funds used to purchase the aircraft allegedly came from bank accounts for the Foundation of Ethnic Harmony, International Centre for Non-Violence and Peace Development, All-Time Peace Media Communications Limited, and Every Child Limited," the DOJ reported.
As the case progresses, Onyema and Eghagha's legal teams remain committed to proving their client's innocence. Air Peace has expressed confidence that the truth will emerge through the judicial process. "We thank our customers and flying public for your continued support and understanding during this time," the airline stated, reinforcing its commitment to integrity and excellence in service.
The coming weeks will be crucial as the airline and its executives deal with this complicated legal situation. The outcome of this case could significantly impact the reputation and operations of Air Peace, a major player in Nigeria's aviation sector.
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