Airlines Operators of Nigeria, the umbrella association of indigenous carriers, has blasted Senator Adams Oshiomhole for his recent display at the Lagos airport.
The group recently described Oshiomhole’s actions as unruly and unacceptable.
Recall that the senator had confronted officials of Air Peace over the alleged extortion of Nigerian passengers, claiming that he missed a flight because of alleged racketeering by airline officials.
Air Peace said that Oshiomhole arrived at the airport late; however, the senator replied that he and some frustrated passengers saw airline staff clearing some other persons who arrived much later.
The politician further stated that about 20 to 30 other passengers faced the same treatment, with airline staff demanding an additional N109,100 to reschedule them for the next flight.
“They tried to give me special treatment, but I refused. What about the others who can’t afford that amount? It seems they are selling tickets at higher rates at the counter, disregarding those who booked earlier. That’s racketeering,” he said.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has since ordered a thorough investigation into the matter while directing all aviation agencies to remain calm.
Reacting to the saga, the spokesperson of the Airlines Operators of Nigeria, Prof Obiora Okonkwo, disclosed that Oshiomhole’s attitude was simply unacceptable.
According to AON, the senator’s action was nothing but a distraction, and no amount of disappointment in any airline should lead any customer to self-help.
The association concluded by saying that Air Peace is a respectable airline that carries 40-50% of all the domestic passengers in Nigeria, so they deserve a lot of respect.
“AON has had enough frustration and distractions in trying to offer services to Nigerians. Meanwhile, the one that just happened with the high-profile Nigerian is another distraction to us. We have taken an interest in all of the press statements released by the distinguished senator, and AON also had a full briefing from Air Peace on this incident.
As much as we understand and appreciate the fact that every passenger has a right, it is only limited to what is allowed by ICAO and the aviation industry. There is no amount of disappointment, if at all, from any airline that should lead you to self-help. What happened is a typical example of unruly behaviour. That is not acceptable, Air Peace is a respectable airline, they carry 40-50 per cent of all the domestic passengers, and they deserve respect,” Obiora added.
