An unfortunate situation has arisen within Nigeria’s aviation industry, resulting in a conflict between two government agencies. This conflict stems from the recent grounding of all Arik Air’s fleets due to outstanding debts amounting to $2.5 million.

After the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, declared the suspension of all Arik Airline flights, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency clarified that the decision was made in compliance with a standing court order from the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

“The Minister Being a member of the Inner Bar himself understands the implication of the Supreme Court Order dismissing the motion for leave to appeal and will not risk his license as a legal practitioner or his privilege as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria by engaging in acts that will frustrate an order of the Supreme Court of Nigeria”, the Spokesperson of NAMA, Abdullahi Musa said in a statement on Tuesday.

In response to the recent suspension, the Chief Executive Officer of the domestic carrier, Arik Air (Managed by Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON), Roy Ilegbodu, expressed his disagreement with the Minister’s decision.

“The management of Arik Air (In Receivership) is dismayed by the sudden order issued by the Honourable Minister of Aviation to ground our Aircraft.

“This decision, made without warning or consultation, has serious repercussions for our valued passengers, dedicated employees, and the broader Nigerian economy.

“This is a devastating blow to our passengers, employees, and the Nigerian economy,” he said.

On his part, he argued that the decision of the Minister comes, “despite that a writ of attachment was issued on July 18, 2024, targeting our Aircraft, after which, further to an originating motion filed by AMCON, the High Court of the FCT on July 25, 2024, clearly instructed all parties to maintain status quo”.

The Abuja Court has Issued an order for the sale of Arik Air’s aircraft to settle outstanding debts owed to Arthur Eze and other creditors by the airline. This development comes amidst ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s aviation industry, including high airfares, infrastructural shortcomings, and safety concerns.