EXCLUSIVE: Aviation Minister Keyamo’s Appointee Overseeing Airport Security Patronises Seyi Vodi, Expensive Designer Known For Charging Millions Of Naira Per Outfit

In a recent development, SaharaReporters has uncovered that ACP Afegbai Albert Igbafe (retd.), appointed by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo as the Director of Aviation Security Services for the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has been observed patronizing Seyi Adekunle, a high-profile fashion designer notorious for charging exorbitant prices. This revelation comes amidst broader scrutiny over Keyamo’s initiatives, including a newly launched ministerial task force targeting aircraft involved in illicit activities such as drug trafficking and money laundering.The video footage obtained by SaharaReporters depicts ACP Igbafe in the company of Seyi Adekunle, the founder of Vodi Group, a prominent Nigerian fashion label known for its luxury designs. In the video, Igbafe is seen discussing a garment made from white material, which he commissions from the designer. Onlookers present at the scene praise Igbafe’s choice of attire, referring to him respectfully as “Baba” and affirming his preference for white clothing.According to sources familiar with the matter, Igbafe assumed his directorial role in December 2023 following a sweeping dismissal of all previous directors within the aviation sector. His association with Seyi Adekunle has sparked concerns about potential conflicts of interest and raised questions regarding the appropriateness of such expenditures, given his official capacity overseeing aviation security.The appointment of Igbafe, a retired police officer, underlines Keyamo’s efforts to reform and bolster security measures within Nigeria’s aviation sector. However, this latest development has drawn criticism and skepticism, particularly regarding the transparency and accountability of appointments made under Keyamo’s tenure.Critics argue that Igbafe’s indulgence in luxury fashion highlights potential misappropriation of resources and diversion from the core responsibilities of ensuring robust aviation security protocols. Such perceptions undermine public confidence in the integrity and effectiveness of government appointments, especially in critical sectors like aviation.SaharaReporters’ coverage underscores broader concerns over governance and accountability in Nigeria, where allegations of nepotism, favoritism, and financial impropriety frequently overshadow official initiatives aimed at combating corruption and enhancing public service delivery.In response to these revelations, stakeholders and the public alike have called for greater scrutiny and oversight of appointments within government agencies, emphasizing the need for adherence to ethical standards and the prudent use of public resources. The controversy surrounding Igbafe’s patronage of high-end fashion services serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the ongoing challenges in maintaining transparency and accountability across Nigeria’s public sector.Moving forward, the spotlight remains on Minister Keyamo and his administration’s commitment to addressing these concerns, ensuring that appointments reflect meritocracy and are aligned with the principles of good governance. The outcome of this scrutiny will likely influence perceptions of government effectiveness and credibility, shaping public discourse on accountability and integrity in Nigerian governance.