Ads
The recent tour of Nigeria by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, aimed to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Harry's Invictus Games, has been clouded in controversy following revelations about their transportation arrangements.
According to a report by Daily Mail Online, the couple, known for their advocacy on environmental issues and sustainable travel, found themselves embroiled in a scandal when it emerged that their flights were provided by Air Peace, an airline with connections to a fugitive wanted in the US.
Dr. Allen Onyema, the founder of Air Peace, reportedly extended complimentary flights to the royal couple and their entourage during their three-day visit to Nigeria.
Ads
However, the gesture took a dubious turn when it was uncovered that Onyema is facing multiple charges in the US related to alleged fraud.
These charges, outlined in a federal indictment from November 2019, cast a shadow over the otherwise celebratory occasion.
Stanley Olisa, a spokesperson for Air Peace, confirmed that Meghan and Harry received VIP treatment during their flights, emphasizing that they were provided with "everything they wanted" due to their royal status.
Ads
The flights, exclusively chartered for the Sussexes, covered a total distance of 664 miles on a 120-seat plane, resulting in approximately 12 tonnes of carbon emissions.
This extravagant mode of travel has drawn sharp criticism, particularly in light of the couple's previous advocacy for environmental causes and sustainable living.
Meghan and Harry's engagement during their visit to Nigeria was met with mixed reactions.
While they were warmly welcomed by local charities, military leaders, injured soldiers, and school children, their association with Air Peace has raised eyebrows and ignited debates about ethical responsibility and transparency.
Ads
The indictment against Onyema paints a troubling picture of alleged financial misconduct, including fraudulent asset purchases and manipulation of the US banking system.
Alongside Air Peace's Chief of Administration and Finance, Ejiroghene Eghagha, Onyema faces charges ranging from conspiracy to commit bank fraud to credit application fraud.
Both men deny the allegations, but the legal proceedings have cast a shadow over the legitimacy of their business practices.
The timing of Meghan and Harry's trip has also sparked speculation within royal circles.
Reports suggest that King Charles was displeased with the couple's independent actions, viewing their speeches and demeanor during the visit as a deliberate assertion of autonomy from traditional royal protocols.
Ads
Despite the controversy, the Sussexes remain steadfast in their commitment to global initiatives and charitable endeavors, hinting at future trips and engagements beyond the confines of royal expectations.
As the scrutiny intensifies, both Meghan and Harry, along with Air Peace, have been approached for comment on the matter.
The public awaits further clarification on the circumstances surrounding their controversial journey, as questions about accountability and ethical conduct continue to loom large in the aftermath of this royal scandal.
Post a Comment