Shareholders and directors of Arik Air Limited have filed a fresh suit at the Federal High Court in Lagos over the takeover of the airline by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).
They are praying the court, amongst several reliefs, for a declaration that the defendants would be personally liable for any air crash arising from non-compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Agency (NCAA) Act and regulations, including any claims for compensation and criminal liability arising therefrom.
In their statement of claim, the plaintiffs alleged that Arik’s aircraft are not receiving adequate and scheduled maintenance as well as regular supply of proper spare parts.
They claim that the over 10 aircraft parked at the Arik Air Hanger are not on a maintenance and storage program and thus the safety of passengers currently being ferried on board the aircraft cannot be guaranteed.
They alleged that there is a risk that lives could be lost if proper spare parts, maintenance and storage programs are not implemented.
The plaintiffs accused the Receiver Manager appointed by AMCON of lacking the expertise and technical capacity to manage Arik Air.
The plaintiffs also are seeking court orders directing the Receiver Manager to procure spare parts from only credible suppliers.
They also prayer for an order directing NCAA officials and officers of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to undertake an independent search and audit of the airline to ensure compliance with safety standards.
AMCON had on February 8 announced its takeover of Arik Air Limited following a court order.
