Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
A human rights activist and lawyer, Abdul Mahmud, has called for the arrest and prosecution of Senator Adams Oshiomhole for allegedly disrupting flight operations at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos.
This comes after Aviation transport leader in Nigeria, Air Peace, issued a statement criticising the allegedly disruptive behaviour exhibited by Adams Oshiomhole which hindered flight operations at Terminal 1 of the airport on Wednesday.
A statement issued by the airline’s management concerning the incident said Mr Oshiomhole arrived at the terminal 1 axis (Zulu Hall) of the airport about 20 minutes late for the departure of the aircraft and was eventually prevented from boarding.
“Air Peace strongly condemns the unruly conduct of a prominent Nigerian politician who disrupted airport operations on the morning of Wednesday, June 11, 2025,” the statement said.
“The prominent individual in question arrived at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1 (Zulu Hall) at approximately 06:10 AM for Flight P47120 scheduled to depart Lagos for Abuja at 06:30 AM. In line with our standard on-time departure policy, the boarding process had closed, and the flight departed as scheduled.”
Upon being informed of the missed flight, Air Peace said Mr Oshiomhole resorted to violence, physically assaulting its staff and forcefully barricading the terminal’s entrance.
“He went as far as sealing the entry gate and manning the access point, effectively obstructing other passengers from gaining entry into the terminal,” the statement said.
The airline described the former Edo State Governor’s behaviour as “unacceptable,” saying it caused significant disruption to ongoing operations and affected numerous travellers scheduled for various flights.
To minimise further inconvenience, Air Peace explained that it activated an operational contingency plan to board affected passengers through an alternate terminal, ensuring the continuity of their travel plans.
“We are deeply saddened that such a high-profile figure displayed conduct so unbecoming and disruptive to fellow passengers and our personnel,” the statement noted.
It noted that Air Peace maintains a zero-tolerance stance on violence or any form of aggression against its staff and passengers.
While urging all guests to remain civil and cooperative at all times, the airline noted that aviation operations are bound by strict timelines and safety protocols, and that they remain committed to upholding these standards while delivering safe and timely services to the Nigerian public.
“Air Peace continues to stand for discipline, integrity, and respect for due process. No individual, no matter how influential, is above these values,” the statement noted.
Oshiomhole’s action a criminal act
Meanwhile, Mahmud in a reaction via his X(formerly Twitter) handle condemned the actions of Mr Oshiomhole.
He alleged that the actions of the former national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Oshiomhole, is a criminal act under the constitution.
While tagging the Aviation Minister, Festus Kenyamo, the Lawyer called for the Senator’s arrest, prosecution and imprisonment.
He said: “This statement by Airpeace is simply nonsense. Airpeace knows that it was Oshiomhole that disrupted its flight operations but chose to describe him as a ‘prominent politician.’ Anyway, this is besides the graver issue.
“The indecent and unruly conduct of Oshiomhole is criminalised by Section 85 of the Civil Aviation Act, 2022.
“Oshiomhole should be arrested, arraigned and jailed for breaching the law. No citizen should be more important than other citizens,” Mahmud added.
