Nigerian airline Air Peace has strongly denied allegations made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, calling him a “blatant liar” and demanding he provide evidence to support his claims.
Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North Senatorial District, reportedly caused a disruption at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed Airport on Wednesday after missing a flight to Abuja.
According to Air Peace, the senator confronted staff and interfered with flight operations following the incident.
The former Edo State governor later shared his version of events, accusing Air Peace of barring him and other passengers from boarding despite completing online check-in.
He also alleged that airline staff were selling tickets at inflated prices to late arrivals.
In a statement released Wednesday night, Air Peace rejected the claims and challenged the senator to present evidence that any passengers were extorted.
“The senator lied blatantly when he accused Air Peace of extortion,” the statement read. “We challenge him to produce one passenger who was extorted.
No tickets were sold after check-in closed, and all tickets were purchased in advance.”
The airline also denied allegations of overbooking, stating the aircraft departed with over 30 empty seats.
“It would have been in our interest to carry Senator Oshiomhole and others who missed their flight, but we prioritize on-time performance over profit,” the statement added.
Air Peace further alleged that Oshiomhole caused significant disruption at the terminal, including blocking access points and inciting other passengers.
The airline called on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to release CCTV footage from the incident.
The statement concluded by labeling the senator’s behavior as “violent, unbecoming, unfortunate, and shameful.”