Air Peace denies tax evasion allegations, wants dialogue with Lagos govt

Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, has dismissed reports alleging that its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, and Vice Chairman, Alice Onyema, are facing a tax evasion lawsuit filed by the Lagos State Government, describing the claims as unexpected and lacking substance.

In a statement released on Monday, the airline expressed concern over the reports, noting that neither the company nor its top executives had received any official court summons or formal notification regarding the alleged suit. It questioned how legal proceedings could have reportedly commenced as far back as February without proper service.

The airline referenced earlier media publications which claimed that a legal dispute had arisen over an alleged tax liability of about ₦94 million, reportedly initiated by the state’s revenue authorities shortly after Onyema publicly criticised federal tax reforms.

Reaffirming its commitment to regulatory compliance, Air Peace insisted that all its tax obligations—both corporate and personal—had been fully settled in accordance with applicable laws.

The statement read in part, “We wish to state unequivocally that neither the Onyemas nor Air Peace has been served with any court summons or official notification regarding the purported suit. The claim that legal proceedings have been ongoing since February, without service or formal communication, is quite surprising and shocking.

“We maintain that all personal and corporate tax obligations have been duly met and remain up to date, in full compliance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements. However, if there is any discrepancy in the computation of taxes, the Onyemas and Air Peace remain open to engaging the Lagos State Government to review and reconcile shortfalls, if any, in the interest of transparency, clarity, and due process.”

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While denying the allegations, the airline signaled its readiness to resolve any potential issues through dialogue, emphasizing that constructive engagement would ensure clarity and accountability.

Air Peace also highlighted the role of its leadership in advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector, stating that the Onyemas have continued to demonstrate resilience and patriotism in sustaining operations despite economic challenges. The company added that it remains focused on providing safe and reliable air travel services and will not be distracted by the controversy.

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