Nigerian airline Air Peace has strongly dismissed social media reports alleging that its Chairman, Allen Onyema, was stranded for over 24 hours at Ekiti State Airport due to navigational issues.
In a statement issued by the airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ejike Ndiulo, Air Peace described the claims as false, misleading, and an intentional attempt to tarnish the company’s reputation.
Clarification on Flight Diversion
Providing clarity on the situation, Ndiulo explained that the aircraft scheduled to transport Onyema from Ekiti to Lagos on Saturday evening was unable to land at Ekiti Airport due to heavy rainfall. As a standard aviation safety measure, the flight was rerouted to Lagos, ensuring passenger safety.
Air Peace emphasized that this occurrence had nothing to do with infrastructural deficiencies at the Ekiti State Airport but was solely a result of adverse weather conditions. The airline also debunked claims that an Air Peace pilot executed a “risky maneuver” to depart from Ekiti, calling the allegation a “complete fabrication.”
Reaffirming its strict adherence to international safety protocols, the airline stressed that passenger safety remains a top priority and that Air Peace would never compromise on operational standards.
“We maintain an unwavering commitment to safety, which is a fundamental principle guiding all our operations. Any suggestion of negligence on our part is baseless,” the statement read.
Security Operatives Arrest Unruly Passengers on Air Peace Flight from London
In a separate development, security personnel at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, apprehended three passengers arriving on an Air Peace flight from London after they engaged in disruptive behavior that threatened the safety of the flight, passengers, and crew members.
Passengers Violate Cabin Rules
The altercation reportedly began when two individuals, identified as Adedigba and Ashibogu, who had Economy Class tickets, unlawfully entered the Business Class section and refused multiple instructions from the crew to return to their assigned seats. Despite repeated warnings, the passengers insisted on occupying Business Class without authorization, leading to heightened tension onboard.
Efforts by the flight attendants to de-escalate the situation proved unsuccessful as the individuals remained defiant. Matters worsened when they proceeded to consume a bottle of rum they had brought onboard, violating airline policies. A third passenger, identified as Iwonze, joined them in drinking, further escalating the disorderly conduct.
As their behavior became increasingly disruptive, the flight captain was forced to leave the cockpit momentarily to assess the situation. Recognizing the potential security risk, the flight crew alerted authorities in Nigeria ahead of the aircraft’s landing.
Law Enforcement Takes Action
Upon arrival at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, law enforcement officers swiftly took the three passengers into custody for further interrogation and possible legal action.
Reacting to the incident, Air Peace reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards disruptive behavior, stressing that the safety of passengers and crew remains paramount.
“The airline upholds the highest standards in aviation security and will not condone any actions that threaten the safety and order of our flights. We commend our crew for their professionalism in handling the situation and ensuring that it did not escalate further,” the airline stated.
Authorities are currently investigating the incident, with legal action expected to follow against the unruly passengers.
