A female passenger, Ms. Chiamaka Don Ubani, has been arraigned in court following an incident on January 8, 2025, that disrupted an Ibom Air flight in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Her actions reportedly caused the flight’s cancellation, inconveniencing 89 passengers and resulting in significant financial and operational setbacks for the airline.
Charges Filed Against Ubani
Ms. Ubani faces two charges under the criminal code of Akwa Ibom State. The first charge accuses her of intentionally preventing the aircraft door from closing, obstructing flight Q1528, which is punishable under Section 436 of the Criminal Code, Cap 39, Volume 2, Laws of Akwa Ibom State.
The second charge alleges she caused public nuisance by obstructing the flight from departing as scheduled, inconveniencing other passengers and the public. This offense is punishable under Section 196(1)(f) of the Criminal Code.
She was granted bail on January 10, 2025, and her case has been scheduled for hearing on February 4, 2025, at the Uyo Magistrate Court.
Details of the Incident
Dr. Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), provided insights into the incident. According to him, Ms. Ubani insisted that her overweight luggage be loaded onto the flight, refusing to comply with standard procedures.
“She angrily disembarked and demanded her bags be loaded. She made it clear that if her demands weren’t met, the flight would not proceed,” Achimugu explained.
Attempts by Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the pilot to resolve the matter were unsuccessful. As a result, the flight was canceled when Uyo’s airspace closed for the day.
NCAA’s Stance on the Matter
Dr. Achimugu stressed the importance of adhering to aviation regulations, stating, “No provocation justifies violent behavior at the airport. Actions that obstruct an aircraft’s movement could, depending on severity, be classified as terrorism, as determined by the police.”
He also highlighted the financial impact on the airline. “Ibom Air had to bear additional costs for refreshments, transportation, and accommodation for stranded passengers—expenses that could have been avoided. Essentially, the airline incurred double costs for the same flight.”
The incident has sparked discussions about passenger behavior and the need for strict adherence to aviation regulations.
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Chronicles Reporters