Abuja Flight Chaos: How an Unruly French Passenger Was Managed by NCAA
A French national was recently deported from Nigeria after causing significant disruptions at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, was initially deboarded from an Air France flight due to unruly behavior that posed a safety risk to other passengers.
Upon arrival, it was discovered that he lacked a valid Nigerian visa, leading authorities to deny him entry into the country.
Air France accommodated him in a hotel within the airport terminal, and he was visited by staff from the French Embassy and a medical doctor. Despite these interventions, his disruptive behavior persisted.
Subsequent attempts to deport him faced challenges. British Airways refused to board him due to similar concerns about his conduct. An attempt to depart via Asky Airlines was also unsuccessful, as he could not provide evidence of payment for his e-ticket.
Given the escalating situation, Nigerian authorities, in collaboration with Air France and the French Embassy, decided to sedate the individual to ensure a safe and uneventful deportation. He was placed on an Air France flight back to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), confirmed the deportation, noting that he was present during the boarding process.
This incident has raised concerns about airport security and the handling of unruly passengers. The NCAA has emphasized the importance of airlines taking responsibility for passengers they transport into the country, especially when such individuals become liabilities.