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How Woman Escapes Mob Attack After Provoking Uproar and Causing Flight Cancellation

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 12th, 2025.

How Woman Escapes Mob Attack After Provoking Uproar and Causing Flight Cancellation

A female passenger narrowly escaped a mob attack at Obong Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, after her disruptive actions led to the cancellation of an Ibom Air flight. The incident, which occurred last Wednesday, was only diffused thanks to the quick intervention of Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers and Ibom Air staff.

Michael Achimugu, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), shared details of the incident on his social media account. According to Achimugu, the passenger’s behavior resulted in significant delays and losses for both passengers and the airline.

The flight, scheduled to depart Uyo for Abuja at 5:30 PM, was delayed due to the woman’s actions. Prior to boarding, all passengers were informed that, due to weight restrictions, some luggage may not be loaded on the same flight. Those with bags exceeding 20kg signed indemnity forms, while others were verbally informed their bags would be flown on the next available flight. The disruptive passenger, who agreed to this arrangement, noticed after boarding that her luggage had not been loaded.

In a fit of anger, she demanded her luggage be placed on the aircraft, threatening that the flight would not depart unless her bag was included. Despite repeated attempts by the pilot and AVSEC personnel to resolve the situation, including an offer to carry her bag in the cabin (which was too large), the woman refused to cooperate. Her actions caused the flight to be delayed until the airspace closed, forcing the pilot to cancel the flight.

The disruption caused severe inconvenience for 89 passengers, including an infant and a chef who was traveling for a paid assignment. As tensions rose among the frustrated passengers, AVSEC and Ibom Air personnel, led by Amaka Echetabu, successfully prevented a potentially violent situation. Had they not acted quickly, the woman could have been harmed by the enraged passengers.

Achimugu praised the swift response of the airport and airline staff, emphasizing the financial impact on Ibom Air, which was forced to provide food, accommodation, and transportation for passengers. Additionally, the airline faced logistical challenges as the flight schedule was disrupted. Achimugu lamented that such an incident could have been avoided and highlighted the consequences for an already struggling aviation industry.