Lawyer Demands ₦1bn Over Allegations Against Abi Otedola, AirJara
Ayodeji Akande, identifying as a lawyer for AirJara Travel and Tours, has demanded ₦1 billion in damages and a public apology from an investigative journalist and an FIJ source over allegations made about the company’s unfulfilled obligations.
In a pre-action letter dated January 2, 2025, AirJara accused the source and FIJ journalist Fisayo Soyombo, also known as Emmanuel Uti, of running a malicious campaign aimed at damaging the reputation of the travel agency and its founder, Abi Otedola.
The letter claimed that the publication, titled “Abi Otedola’s AirJara Vanishes With ₦1.7m Lagos Man Paid For Canadian Work Permit 3 Years Ago”, was defamatory, incited public disdain, and caused emotional and psychological distress to Otedola.
“Our client’s attention has been drawn to an online publication… targeted to incite public disorder and discredit the Air Travel and Tours business. The publication falsely painted our client as fraudulent, causing reputational harm and emotional trauma,” the letter read.
The allegations stem from a report by FIJ about Lagos resident Taiwo Ogunjobi (pseudonym), who claimed he paid ₦1,728,000 to AirJara in March 2022 for a Canadian work permit. Ogunjobi alleged he never received the permit or a refund, despite repeated follow-ups.
According to Ogunjobi, the agency only disclosed its no-refund policy after receiving payment. Attempts to seek a resolution failed, and by late 2023, AirJara had vacated its office, with both the company and its founder becoming unreachable.
FIJ’s attempts to reach AirJara for a response were unsuccessful. Instead, Otedola’s lawyer accused Ogunjobi and FIJ of issuing ultimatums during public holidays and using the media to unfairly malign their client.
The pre-action letter emphasized that the publication caused Otedola “insomnia” and loss of reputation, branding the allegations as “libelous and malicious.” Akande demanded ₦1 billion in damages and warned of legal action if the journalist and source failed to issue a public apology.
The travel agency has yet to provide a work permit or refund to Ogunjobi. Meanwhile, FIJ has stood by its report, citing Ogunjobi’s account and supporting evidence.
The case has sparked discussions about consumer protection and accountability in Nigeria’s travel sector. While AirJara defends its reputation, critics argue that transparency and ethical practices are essential in preventing such disputes.
The controversy continues to unfold as both parties prepare for potential legal battles.
