Witchcraft should be used if airlines can’t be maintained – Sen Anyanwu

Sam Anyanwu, senator representing Imo east, says if aircraft cannot be properly maintained, witchcraft should be used as a means to fly.

Anyanwu said this on Tuesday while contributing to a debate on the need to curb air mishaps in the country.

“It is shameful that Nigeria does not have any national carrier. I think every responsible government should look at this issue. If the aircraft cannot be maintained, let’s use witchcraft and start flying. That is the truth.

“Where is our national carrier? The government should look at the airline sector. Foreigners don’t come here (Nigeria) because it is not safe. Government should pay attention to the sector,” Anyanwu said.

He further suggested that the federal government may give bailout funds and pay more attention to the airlines to enhance their operations.

Stella Oduah, senator representing Anambra north on her part said the problem with the aviation sector was funding.

Oduah said government should provide the requisite fund to the sector at a single digit rate.

“The problem is funding, you need money to train and maintain aircraft.

“The issue is why is the [safety] protocol is not followed? The first person who has the responsibility to avoid any incident is the pilot,” Oduah said.