Keyamo Reacts to Claims of Pilots Smoking Indian Hemp

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has responded to claims made by APC chieftain Orji Kalu alleging that some Nigerian pilots use Indian hemp before operating flights. The statement from Kalu, published on Vanguard’s official X account on Thursday, October 16, 2025, has drawn strong criticism from the aviation ministry.

Orji Kalu’s Controversial Claim

During his remarks, Senator Orji Kalu stated, “On many occasions, I have stopped to fly because of inadequacy of pilot’s preparation. Some of the pilots are not prepared, some of them use Indian Hemp. Yes, it’s true, some of them smoke Indian Hemp.” This assertion about pilots and Indian hemp use immediately sparked concern within the aviation sector and among traveling passengers.

Keyamo’s Office Issues Strong Rebuttal

Festus Keyamo’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, characterized the senator’s comments as dangerous and potentially panic-inducing. He emphasized that such statements could unfairly damage the aviation industry’s reputation without supporting evidence. Moshood stated, “It is one thing to call for higher standards; it is another to make wild claims without a shred of evidence.” The aviation minister’s response underscores the seriousness with which the ministry views allegations about pilots using Indian hemp, particularly given their potential to undermine public confidence in air travel safety. The ministry maintains that such claims require substantiation before being presented as fact.