Officials from the Ministry of Aviation have been arrested for the unauthorized sale of two helicopters bought for $4.8 million, for a mere $1.2 million.
This transaction, which occurred in May 2023, has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the integrity of asset management within the ministry.
The helicopters in question, 2 Bell 206 models (206-L4 BZB and BZC – M2061) belonging to the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology in Zaria, were sold to private individuals at less than 60% of their purchase price.
This sale proceeded despite significant interest from the Nigerian Air Force, Navy, and Police, who were willing to purchase the helicopters at a more reasonable price.
The arrest of the ministry officials came on the orders of Hon. Ademorin Kuye, the Chairman of the Committee on Public Assets.
The Committee had been investigating the sale and discovered the gross undervaluation and unauthorized nature of the transaction.
Hon. Kuye expressed his dismay over the incident, stating, “It is appalling that such valuable assets were sold off at a fraction of their cost, especially when our own defense forces had expressed interest.
This is a clear case of mismanagement and corruption, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
The arrest of the officials involved marks the beginning of what is expected to be a thorough investigation into the practices within the Ministry of Aviation.
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