A French national was removed from an Air France flight at Abuja Airport on New Year’s Day after causing disturbances that raised security and diplomatic concerns. The passenger’s disruptive behavior disrupted multiple flights, prompting airport security to intervene and prevent him from entering the boarding area.
According to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the man’s actions posed a safety risk, leading to his removal from the flight. The passenger had arrived in Abuja without a valid Nigerian visa and was denied entry into the country.
Despite efforts by Air France to accommodate him in a hotel within the airport, the passenger’s erratic behavior continued. He was subsequently refused boarding by British Airways due to his disruptive conduct and failure to provide proof of payment for his ticket.
The passenger’s attempts to board flights with other airlines, including Asky Airlines, were also unsuccessful due to his inability to show evidence of payment for his e-ticket. Immigration officers struggled to manage the passenger, who caused a scene in the terminal, shouting and throwing tissue paper around.
Authorities were concerned that returning his passport might allow him to flee the airport, and the incident has raised concerns about airport security and diplomatic protocols.
