Sequel to recent accusations and efforts to get money by force, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has issued a strong statement condemning blackmailers and reconfirming its dedication to openness and responsibility.
This information was shared in a statement signed by Director, Consumer Protection & Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu and given to journalists on Saturday.
It was reported that just a few months after the appointment of Acting Director-General, NCAA, Chris Najomo, was accused of financial mismanagement, breaches of government procurement regulations, and significant abuse of office.
The report claimed that the agency purchased a 2022 brand of Toyota Land Cruiser (70th Anniversary Edition) worth over N250m as the official vehicle for the DG.
Reacting to this claim, The statement partly read, “The Authority and its Director-General, Chris Najomo is by this statement, making it clear that it will not bow to blackmail or threats of any nature. We are not unaware of the elements behind these spurious attempts designed to aid the bid of certain power-seekers and we will respond robustly to any further attempts to cause chaos in our agency.
The agency reiterated its transparency and adherence to procurement regulations, reaffirming that no vehicle purchases had been made.
“We will continue to be transparent about their concerns and we stand by our response via the press conference held on 29/04/2024 that no purchase of vehicles has been made and so, no procurement rules have been abused.”
“We will not succumb to blackmail or intimidation of any kind,” Najomo emphasized.
“These attempts to disrupt our operations and tarnish our reputation will be met with a firm response.”
It also added, “Any organization, publication, or individual with a purchase receipt or evidence of same stands challenged to publish it.”
Legal action has been initiated against the publisher and reporter of the Daily Nigerian for their defamatory publication. The NCAA warned that any further attempts at blackmail would be met with swift legal recourse.
Expressing gratitude for the support of President Bola Tinubu and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the NCAA affirmed its dedication to safety and regulatory compliance within the aviation sector.
“We remain focused on our mission despite these distractions,” Achimugu concluded. “Neither the agency nor Capt. Chris Najomo will be deterred by falsehoods and blackmail.”
