The 2023 Labour Party’s Presidential candidate, Peter Obi has urged political leaders to stop harassing local businesses but rather encourage and patronize them.
Obi made the plea in reaction to the ongoing clash between Nigerian local airline, Air Peace, and former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomole.
NPO Reported that Oshiomole had on Wednesday caused drama at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) by ordering the closure of Air Peace’s departure terminal after missing his flight.
The incident had resulted to series accusation and counter-accusations from both parties.
While the airline accused Oshiomole of assaulting its staff and inconveniencing it’s customers, the Edo lawmaker accused the Air Peace of extortion and reselling of already booked spots for passengers.
Reacting to the development in a post on his X handle on Saturday, Obi claimed to have just arrived at London from Lagos through Air Peace.
Commending the airline for its professionalism and competence, the former Anambra state governor maintained that indigenous businesses deserve strong and deliberate support from political leaders not condemnation.
He noted the difficult environment under which most of the businesses operates especially the aviation industry which is highly capital intensive.
“I just arrived in the UK this morning, on Air Peace from Lagos to London. I have now taken almost a dozen flights to or from London on this airline. I want to sincerely thank the management and staff of Air Peace for their professionalism, consistency, and competence on this route.
“Once again, I use this opportunity to appeal to Nigerian Elites and political leaders to give strong and deliberate support to indigenous businesses.
“It is never easy to run any business in our difficult environment, let alone highly capital-intensive sectors like air and land transportation, especially given the challenges of competitiveness and rising operational costs.
“Nigerian businesses need our encouragement and patronage, not harassment or unnecessary intimidation.
“Supporting local businesses, particularly those that create massive employment, is critical for job creation, economic growth, and sustainable national development.” Obi wrote.
