A passenger reportedly assaulted an officer of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) at Lagos Airport, according to a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu.
The passenger, identified as Ibok Maurice Ibok, allegedly attacked the officer over issues related to missing luggage.
“Earlier today, Mr. Ibok Maurice Ibok, a passenger whose luggage did not arrive on his Royal Air Maroc flight (short-landed baggage), became aggressive and threatened an NCAA Consumer Protection Officer (CPO) in Lagos.
“The officer, previously a victim of an unjustified physical attack, kept his distance from the passenger, who continued shouting. The CPO maintained that he would only attend to the passenger once he calmed down.
“A staff member from another aviation agency, reportedly an Assistant General Manager (AGM), was seen supporting the passenger’s actions instead of helping to de-escalate the situation,” Achimugu stated.
He emphasized that no individual, regardless of circumstances, has the right to assault NCAA personnel, who are present solely to assist passengers and ensure airlines comply with regulations. Such attacks, he added, serve no constructive purpose.
Achimugu confirmed that the NCAA’s legal department would pursue legal action against Mr. Ibok and that the AGM involved would be reported to his managing director.
“Royal Air Maroc is among the airlines currently facing enforcement actions from the NCAA. Today’s incident will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate measures will be taken based on the findings.
“The Honourable Minister of Aviation and the DG NCAA will not tolerate any assault on their staff. Passengers are encouraged to adhere to Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. The NCAA remains committed to protecting the rights of all stakeholders,” he concluded.