The federal government yesterday lifted the suspension clamped on Executive Jets Services for engaging in commercial operations during the COVID-19 lockdown.
The charter operator was suspended indefinitely for going outside the brief of the approval given to it by flying a controversial musician, Azeez Fashola, popularly called Naira Marley and ex-BB Naija housemate, Kim Oprah, to Abuja for a concert in June during the lockdown.
The flight was originally approved to convey a serving judge from Lagos to Abuja and back, on official assignment.
Speaking at the bi-weekly Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 briefing on yesterday, the minister of aviation, Mr. Hadi Sirika explained that the suspension on the airline was lifted following the compliance of the airline’s with sanctions imposed on it.
“Today, we lifted the ban on Executive Jets Air Services Limited. They have complied substantially with all of our imposed sanctions.
“They have paid parts of the fine and they have brought out a payment plan for the balance. So, we lifted the ban and they will continue to do their business. these kinds of things are not punitive, they are things to make our industry work better and keep all of you safe,” he said
On the report on investigation into alleged violations of the COVID-19 protocols by VIPs, Sirika said he expected it during the week.
“As to the VIP offenders which are undergoing investigation, the report will be on my desk this week hopefully and we will keep you posted,” he said.
