Security operatives at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, apprehended three unruly passengers on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, following disruptive behavior aboard an Air Peace flight from London, which endangered the safety of passengers and crew.
Air Peace spokesperson and Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, adding that security agencies are investigating the matter, and legal action is expected.
According to Ndiulo, the disruption began mid-flight when two passengers, Adedigba Adewale and Ashibogu Magnus, originally seated in Economy Class, unlawfully occupied Business Class seats and refused multiple instructions from the crew to return to their assigned seats.
Despite efforts to de-escalate the situation, the individuals remained defiant, creating a tense atmosphere onboard.
The passengers further violated flight regulations by consuming a bottle of rum they had brought on board.
A third passenger, Iwonze Benjamin, joined them in drinking and also exhibited unruly behavior.
He said: “This furthermore exacerbated their unruly conduct. Their behaviour raised security and safety concerns among passengers and crew, prompting the captain to make repeated announcements from the cockpit.
“Recognizing the potential threat, the flight crew notified security agencies in Nigeria ahead of arrival. Upon landing, law enforcement officials were on the ground to apprehend the individuals who were taken into custody for further investigations.
“Air Peace has reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and adherence to global aviation standards. The airline emphasized that any form of disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated and assured the public of its continuous efforts to uphold the highest levels of security and order on all flights.
“Air Peace praised its crew for their professionalism in handling this threat to safety in a way that prevented a worse event from occurring.”
