Rita Odafe
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has addressed a viral video showing an altercation between its officials and a woman at Murtala Mohammed International Airport.
In the widely shared clip, the unidentified woman accuses the airport personnel of asking for N5000 to assist her with baggage clearance. She expresses her frustration, highlighting that she is a legitimate passenger and questioning the officials’ demand.
The incident has sparked significant public backlash, with many Nigerians criticizing the airport staff for alleged corrupt practices.
In a statement released on October 8, FAAN clarified that the woman involved was not a passenger but a cargo agent engaged in illegal activities at the airport.
‘’She refused to comply with the required cargo fees and acted inappropriately, damaging airport property and straining our resources. FAAN staff did not assault her nor solicit a bribe; this was a case of blackmail. Our personnel were simply enforcing the applicable fees.’
FAAN urged all cargo agents and the public to ensure that cargo operations are conducted in designated zones and to use appropriate vehicles and personnel while paying the necessary fees. The agency emphasized that its cargo guidelines are meant to maintain safety, protect airport facilities, and uphold quality customer service by following international standards.
FAAN explained that a penalty of N5,000 is applied for cargo non-compliance due to:
– Not using the designated cargo terminals.
– Damage to carousels from improper cargo handling.
Furthermore, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to providing transparency regarding its protocols and called on the public to follow airport operation rules to prevent similar situations in the future.
Check out the viral video below;
Viral video: Airport passenger accuses FAAN staff of extortion pic.twitter.com/iLSV8l2GWT
— WuzupNigeria (@WuzupNigeria) October 8, 2024
