AN elderly passenger was on Wednesday escorted off a Nigerian commercial aircraft after refusing to comply with safety instructions and allegedly threatening a flight attendant, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has disclosed.
News Point Nigeria reports that the incident, which occurred earlier in the day at an undisclosed airport, was confirmed by NCAA spokesperson Michael Achimugu in a post on his official X handle.
He noted that he deliberately withheld the name of the airline involved, explaining that the matter was shared primarily as an educational case for passengers.
According to Achimugu, the passenger was originally seated in an emergency exit row, a section reserved for individuals physically capable and willing to assist in the event of an emergency evacuation.
Cabin crew therefore requested that he change seats to comply with international aviation safety regulations.
“Despite being briefed on the importance of the switch, the passenger declined and refused to cooperate,” Achimugu explained.
“Matters escalated when the passenger allegedly threatened a female cabin crew member on two occasions, telling her he would “slap her.”
The disruption prompted the pilot to summon airport security and Air Force personnel stationed at the terminal.
NCAA Consumer Protection Officers were also invited onboard to help manage the situation.
Following discussions, the passenger was informed that, in light of his threats and refusal to follow safety instructions, the pilot would not permit him to remain on the flight. He was escorted back to the terminal by security officers and NCAA officials.
Achimugu added that the passenger later appeared to grasp the seriousness of his actions and agreed to comply. He is expected to continue his journey on a later flight.
The NCAA stressed that the removal was not punitive but a necessary step to safeguard crew and passengers.
“Threats of violence against cabin crew are unacceptable. Safety and comfort of all passengers must remain a shared priority,” Achimugu said.
The regulator urged passengers who feel dissatisfied with airline services to lodge formal complaints through the NCAA Consumer Protection Department at cpd.ncaa.gov.ng
The agency further appealed for mutual respect, patience, and adherence to safety protocols, noting that flight crews are trained to protect all passengers and must not be obstructed while discharging their duties.
