Some officials from the Ministry of Aviation are under intense investigation for allegedly selling two helicopters, which were originally bought for $
Some officials from the Ministry of Aviation are under intense investigation for allegedly selling two helicopters, which were originally bought for $4.8 million, to private individuals for a much lower price of $1.2 million.
This controversial sale has caused widespread outrage, especially since various government agencies, such as the Nigerian Air Force, Navy, and police, had shown interest in the helicopters.
Ademorin Kuye, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets, responded by ordering the arrest of the implicated ministry officials.
Kuye voiced serious concern about the consequences of the sale, stating, “This is a blatant misuse of public assets. Lives have been lost due to the unavailability of these helicopters, which were sold off without proper consideration.”
Detailed technical reports from Zaria, Kaduna State, indicated that one helicopter had logged only 42 flight hours, while the other had 46 hours.
Even with their minimal use and excellent condition, the helicopters were said to have been sold without sufficient consultation with potential government buyers.
“We provided proof of maintenance and received interest from other government entities,” Kuye emphasized.
“It is unacceptable that despite the clear demand from government agencies, these helicopters were auctioned off at a fraction of their value.”
The auction, said to have been held on May 24, led to the sale of both helicopters for $1.2 million, according to internal memos reviewed by sources.
Concerns have been raised about the transparency and documentation of the sale process.
“There are serious discrepancies in how this auction was conducted,” Kuye remarked, highlighting concerns about procedural irregularities.
“The Ministry of Aviation must be held accountable for this negligence and lack of transparency.”
