The spokesperson of the National Civil Aviation Authority NCAA, Michael Achimugu, has taken to social media to educate Nigerians on the timelines of air operations.
In a post shared on X, Achimugu disclosed that a passenger is expected to be at the airport two hours before their flight. He opined that a passenger is deemed late if he or she arrives at the airport 10 minutes before the scheduled departure of their flight.
In two videos circulated on Wednesday on X, Oshiomhole could be seen addressing an official at the airport and also sitting in front of a gate at the terminal.
Addressing the incident via a statement, the airline accused the politician of disrupting its airport operations after missing a scheduled flight.
“The prominent individual in question arrived at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1 (Zulu Hall) at approximately 06:10 AM for Flight P47120 scheduled to depart Lagos for Abuja at 06:30 AM,” the statement reads.
“In line with our standard on-time departure policy, the boarding process had closed, and the flight departed as scheduled.
“Upon being informed of the missed flight, the politician resorted to violence, physically assaulting our staff and forcefully barricading the terminal’s entrance.
“He went as far as sealing the entry gate and manning the access point, effectively obstructing other passengers from gaining entry into the terminal.”
According to the statement, the “unacceptable” behaviour caused significant disruption to ongoing operations and affected numerous travellers scheduled for various flights.
Air Peace said it activated an operational contingency plan to board affected passengers through an alternate terminal, ensuring the continuity of their travel plans.
“We are deeply saddened that such a high-profile figure displayed conduct so unbecoming and disruptive to fellow passengers and our personnel,” the airline said.
“Air Peace maintains a zero-tolerance stance on violence or any form of aggression against our staff and passengers. We urge all guests, to remain civil and cooperative at all times.
“Aviation operations are bound by strict timelines and safety protocols, and we remain committed to upholding these standards while delivering safe and timely services to the Nigerian public.”
Air Peace reaffirmed its commitment to upholding discipline, integrity, and respect for due process, adding that “no individual is above these values”.
