An unruly passenger aboard Air France caused disruptions at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, prompting a series of incidents involving multiple airlines, immigration officials, and diplomatic intervention.
This was revealed in a post on X by the Director Public Affairs and consumer Protection at the NCCA, Michael Achimugu on Wednesday.
The passenger, a French national, with a reported name of ‘Yusuf’ was deboarded from an Air France flight after exhibiting disruptive behavior that posed a safety risk to others on board.
Without a valid Nigerian visa, he was denied entry into the country and temporarily housed in a hotel within the airport terminal.
Officials from the French Embassy, along with a doctor, visited him to assess the situation.
Later, British Airways also deboarded the same passenger due to similar unruly behavior, further complicating matters.
Today, the individual attempted to depart via Asky Airlines but failed to present valid proof of payment for his e-ticket, leading the airline to refuse his boarding.
Immigration officials had a challenging time managing the erratic passenger ‘Yusuf’, who was seen littering the terminal with tissue paper and shouting, “My passport, my passport.” To prevent the passenger from fleeing into the city, immigration officers withheld his international passport until he could board a flight.
Miriam Anosike, the NCAA Consumer Protection regional head, intervened decisively, addressing Air France personnel and holding them accountable.
“If you are afraid to airlift him, why do you expect other airlines to be responsible for him? Get him a ticket and move him tomorrow!” she said, emphasising the safety, security, and diplomatic implications of the situation.
The situation is expected to be resolved tomorrow night, with Air France tasked with ensuring the passenger’s safe removal from Nigeria. Immigration officials and airport authorities are on high alert to monitor the airline’s operations.
The incident highlights the challenges of managing disruptive passengers and the critical role of coordination between airlines, immigration, and diplomatic entities in maintaining airport security.
