The federal government has reacted to a viral video of an altercation between a Nigerian traveller, Ms Omisore G. and a representative of Kenya Airways, accusing the airline of maltreating Nigerian passengers.
The Nigerian government, in a post made by Tunde Moshood, a media aide to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, condemned the “inhuman treatments of Nigerian passengers in Nairobi” by the airline.
He said, “Our attention has been drawn to several cases of inhuman treatments of Nigerian passengers in Nairobi by @KenyaAirways. A case of Ms. Omisore G. who flew from Manchester to Lagos, connecting-Man-CDG-NBO-LOS, only to be denied boarding in Nairobi on the 2nd leg of same ticket.”
In a follow-up post, the minister’s aide explained that they have tried to resolve the issue but the airline is not ready to respect the authorities.
“We have tried to resolve the issue with the airline, @KenyaAirways, but they obviously don’t have regard for authorities. Now, we learnt they’re threatening to deport her to Lagos tomorrow. We’re waiting…” he further said.
Meanwhile, Kenya Airways has also issued a statement explaining the position on the issue of verbal exchange between the Nigerian passenger and its agent.
According to the statement, Ms Omisore was travelling from Lagos to Manchester, “On arrival in Nairobi for her connecting flight (Nairobi-Paris), it was discovered that she did not have a SCHENGEN Visa, which is a requirement for her to enter any European Union Country.”
Continuing, the airline claimed Omoisore was offered an alternative route which she denied.
“She was offered an alternative to travel through London and onward to Manchester, which she refused.
“Upon further investigation, we have established that the video does not provide full context.
“Unhappy with this option, the guest demanded accommodation, which Kenya Airways does not provide in cases where boarding is denied due to visa requirements. It is the responsibility of passengers to ensure they have the necessary documentation for their journey.
“In a distressing turn of events, the guest resorted to inappropriate behaviour by removing and throwing 3 used sanitary pads at our employees.
“We strongly condemn such conduct. While we remain committed to delivering exceptional service, we expect all interactions to be based on mutual respect. Our employees deserve to work in a safe and dignified environment, and we do not tolerate any abuse from our employees or guests.
“The incident has been reported and is under investigation by the relevant security agencies. We are committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure the well-being and safety of our employees and guests at all times.”
