Passengers Accuse United Nigeria Airlines of Diverting Anambra-Bound Flight to Asaba

Several passengers aboard a United Nigeria Airlines flight destined for Anambra have raised allegations that the airline diverted their journey to Asaba in Delta state this Saturday.

@9jaDisciple, one of the affected passengers, has initiated legal action against United Nigeria Airlines, citing dissatisfaction with the airline’s conduct. In an initial post on social media platform X, he disclosed that the Lagos-Anambra flight failed to reach its intended destination.

The flight, scheduled for 10:30 am, experienced significant delays, taking off at around 4 pm. The passenger recounted that the aircraft, initially bound for Awka, diverted to Abuja for a crew change before proceeding to Asaba.

Protests ensued among passengers, and an altercation reportedly occurred between one of the crew members and a passenger. According to @9jaDisciple, airline owner Mr. Obiora was present at the airport and informed passengers that they should be grateful for a safe landing, emphasizing that the company did not profit from the trip. Obiora allegedly departed, leaving stranded passengers at the airport by 10 pm.

Another affected passenger, Alexander Onukwue, expressed frustration, stating that the airline had essentially “robbed” him and left him to find his way at night. Onukwue criticized the airline on social media, urging Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and the civil aviation authority to scrutinize the status of United Nigeria Airlines.

In response to the allegations, United Nigeria Airlines has not yet provided a statement.

Civil Aviation Authority Initiates Investigation

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a statement confirming its intent to investigate the flight diversion. Michael Achimugu, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, acknowledged that flight diversions are not uncommon in the aviation industry.

While assuring the public of aviation safety and regulatory compliance, Achimugu stated that NCAA is actively investigating the incident. He revealed that United Nigeria Airlines reported some passengers being accommodated in a hotel, while others chose alternative transportation.

NCAA emphasized its commitment to monitoring the situation closely, reinforcing its dedication to enforcing aviation regulations for passenger safety and satisfaction.