A Nigerian passenger, identified as Omisore, has safely arrived in Lagos after a controversial altercation with Kenya Airways staff at the transfer desk in Nairobi.
The incident, which was captured in a viral video, sparked widespread condemnation, drawing the attention of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Ministry of Aviation.
Following the incident, the NCAA has summoned the acting station manager of Kenya Airways in Lagos for a mandatory meeting to address concerns regarding the alleged mistreatment of Nigerian passengers.
Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs, stated that Kenya Airways has been accused of a history of mistreating Nigerians, including NCAA staff.
He also noted that the airline will be asked to provide CCTV footage to verify its claim that Omisore engaged in inappropriate behavior by throwing used sanitary pads at its staff.
“I have advised the passenger that unruly behavior is inexcusable at any airport and she can be blacklisted by the airline or even fined. The NCAA does not condone unruly behavior,” Achimugu said.
However, he criticized the airline’s handling of the situation, questioning why Omisore was allowed to board the flight from Nigeria if she did not meet visa requirements.
In response to the controversy, Kenya Airways explained that Omisore was denied boarding in Nairobi because she lacked a Schengen visa for France, which is required to enter the European Union.
The airline claimed it offered an alternative route from London to Manchester, which Omisore declined, leading to a verbal altercation.
The airline also defended its staff, condemning any form of abuse against its employees. “Our employees deserve to work in a safe and dignified environment, and we do not tolerate any abuse from our employees or guests,” Kenya Airways said.
However, the NCAA has insisted that the airline must provide video evidence to support its allegations against Omisore, particularly regarding claims that she threw sanitary pads at its staff.
The NCAA has granted Kenya Airways a 24-hour extension to provide further details on the incident. Meanwhile, Omisore has now safely arrived in Lagos after boarding a Kenya Airways flight back to Nigeria.
The incident has further fueled discussions about the treatment of Nigerian passengers by international airlines, with calls for stricter oversight and accountability.