The leadership of Azikel Group, represented by founder Dr. Eruani Azibapu CFR, has come forward to address the surge of misleading and defamatory reports circulating in various media concerning an alleged lawsuit worth N1 billion. The management described these claims as falsehoods aimed at character defamation and an orchestrated plan to exploit the program by a disgruntled trainee pilot, Ezekiel Kaiyai Dakouro, who was found to be planning to abscond to the United States while abandoning his training.
Regarding the facts of the aviation scholarship, the Azikel Aviation Training Programme is a respected philanthropic initiative sponsored entirely by Dr. Eruani Azibapu CFR, aimed specifically at supporting the youth of Bayelsa pursuing careers in aviation. Participation in the program is free for candidates, with the organization covering all associated costs, including a monthly allowance during their initial mentorship and training at the company’s aviation hangar. This training involves a thorough assessment of the candidates’ character, learning abilities, and commitment to returning to Nigeria after training abroad.
In total, the company disbursed N3,283,200 (Three Million Two Hundred and Eighty-Three Thousand Two Hundred Naira) to support Dakouro in his training, which he then tried to abandon after crafting plans to escape to the United States. Contrary to the narrative of deceit being promoted by Dakouro and his associates, it is he who attempted to defraud the program by not contributing anything of value and subsequently attempting to leave without fulfilling his obligations.
On the matter of the outrageous N1 billion demand by Dakouro, who received substantial amounts for his participation without significant contribution to the company, the Azikel management denounced this as not only frivolous but also an affront to the intelligence of the Nigerian populace. They believe it is a calculated attempt at extortion leveraging Dr. Azibapu’s reputation.
Dr. Eruani Azibapu is recognized as a reputable businessman and philanthropist with a long-standing record of contributions to Bayelsa State and Nigeria. He stated he will not be intimidated by unverified media reports or individuals attempting to exploit the situation for financial gain. The Azikel Group is committed to empowering youth without succumbing to blackmail from those they aim to assist.
In a summary of the entire situation, the Azikel Aviation Training Programme is a notable charitable initiative dedicated to supporting aspiring aviation professionals from Bayelsa, focusing on training pilots and engineers in helicopter and airplane maintenance. This initiative has no political connections or financial motives tied to the sponsor, Dr. Eruani Azibapu, who is not pursuing any political ambitions.
The program selected candidates after a comprehensive Computer-Based Test on February 28, 2024, with Dakouro being one of the selectees. The candidates started their training in March 2024 and were afforded monthly allowances to support their studies. Their responsibility included learning alongside in- house engineers and pilots while also providing assurances of their return to Nigeria post-training.
Throughout the initial phase from March 24, 2024, to June 2025, it was observed that Dakouro was receiving a monthly allowance of N205,200. Still, he failed the character assessment and attempts to reassure the company of his intent to return after completing his studies.
On March 26, 2025, as discussions for training admission at the U.S.-based OSM Aviation Academy proceeded, management was alarmed by reports indicating that Dakouro was planning to elope immediately upon arrival in the U.S. This information became concerning, especially since he was selling personal belongings in Nigeria, demonstrating his preparations to evade returning after his training.
Upon uncovering these intentions, Dakouro hastily resigned from the program to escape potential repercussions for his actions.
Finally, the Azikel Group urges media outlets and online platforms to refrain from publishing unverified or misleading accounts. Reporting on ongoing legal matters should not devolve into a smear campaign devoid of thorough investigation, as those perpetuating such false narratives may face legal consequences.
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