The hearing was adjourned from yesterday, Wednesday, to allow the aviation minister attend. The minister was expected at the Wednesday hearing but was absent because she was away in Israel for a bilateral air service agreement signing.
NE gathered that the minister arrived at the venue of the hearing, 100 minutes after the hearing was scheduled to kick off.
Ms. Oduah however apologized for her inability to attend previous hearings. She said said her absence was not out of disrespect and thanks the committee for rescheduling her appearance.
“Nigeria’s airspace is now rate among the safest in the world”. She adds that allegation about car purchase is meant to discredit her team and give the impression her effort at reforms is not succeeding.
NCAA has not spent any money not appropriated by the National Assembly. The agency has even saved the nation a cost and further embarrassment that may occur in future.
Jerry Manwe (Member) to minister: If the armoured cars were not for you as you claimed, who is using them now?
Former acting DG answers for minister: Any one can use any car in the pool
Manwe: Do you mean a cleaner can use those kind of cars?
Former DG: Anybody can use; but those kind of cars are for VIP movement, including foreign dignitaries, including the minister, and even you honourable member!
Manwe; Thank you. But the law of the country does not allow me to use those cars.
Wrapping up the hearing. Chairperson Onyejeocha said despite the testimonies from those invited since last week, the committee has received sufficient documents that will inform its report. “We have given everyone fair hearing,” she said.
“We assure everyone and all Nigerians we will do justice”.
The highlight of Thursday's hearing was the minister’s appearance. Her absence at the hearing on Wednesday angered many lawmakers who said it would be her last opportunity to be heard.
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