An unruly passenger aboard an Air France flight caused a stir at Abuja International Airport on Wednesday, leading to his deboarding due to safety concerns for other passengers.
Lacking a Nigerian visa, the French national was denied entry into Abuja.
However, staff from the French Embassy and a doctor attended to him, and he was accommodated in a hotel within the airport terminal.
The passenger’s troubles continued when British Airways also deboarded him later for displaying the same disruptive behaviour.
On Thursday, he attempted to leave Nigeria via Asky Airlines but failed to provide proof of payment for the e-ticket he presented, prompting the airline to decline his boarding.
A viral video captured the chaos as immigration officials struggled to manage the erratic traveler.
He was seen scattering tissue paper across the terminal and shouting, “My passport, my passport.”
Immigration officers were determined to hand over his passport only when he boarded his flight, aiming to prevent him from evading security and entering the city.
The NCAA Consumer Protection regional head, Miriam Anosike, addressed Air France personnel, highlighting the diplomatic, security, and safety implications of the situation.
She firmly stated, “If you are afraid to airlift him, why do you expect other airlines to be responsible for him? Get him a ticket and move him tomorrow!”
