FAAN explains cargo operations restriction, says viral assault video is blackmail

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has clarified a video circulating online, depicting a disagreement between its staff and an individual over cargo charges at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Terminal.

The Authority said that there was no form of molestation by FAAN staff, neither was there any request for a bribe from our staff during the incident, saying it was simply an act of blackmail.

It called on cargo agents to conduct operations only at designated areas or face sanctions by the Authority.

Obiageli Orah, FAAN’s spokesperson in a statement on Tuesday, said contrary to reports, the individual involved was not a passenger but a cargo agent conducting illegal operations at the airport who refused to pay the stipulated charges for the cargo and behaved in an unacceptable manner, damaging equipment and straining our resources.

“Our staff was simply ensuring that the correct levy was paid. We urge all cargo agents and members of the public to note that cargo operations should be restricted to designated cargo areas, utilizing proper vehicles, personnel, and pay the levies. Our cargo policies are designed to ensure adherence to international best practices, prevent damage to airport facilities, and prioritize customer service and safety.

“Specifically, we impose a fine of ₦5,000.00 on non-compliant cargoes for the following reasons:- Failure to utilize designated cargo terminals and damage to carousels resulting from improper cargo handling.

“FAAN remains committed to providing clear guidance on our policies and procedures. We advise the public to adhere to the rules guiding airport operations to avoid similar incidents in the future. By working together, we can ensure a safe and efficient airport experience for all,” FAAN explained in its statement.

Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha

Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha is the Aviation Correspondent at BusinessDay Media Limited, publishers of BusinessDay Newspapers. She is also the Deputy Editor, BusinessDay Weekender Magazine, the Saturday Weekend edition of BusinessDay. She holds a BSC in Mass Communication from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka and a Masters degree in Marketing at the University of Lagos. As the lead writer on the aviation desk, Ifeoma is responsible and in charge of the three weekly aviation and travel pages in BusinessDay and BDSunday. She also overseas and edits all pages of BusinessDay Saturday Weekender. She has written various investigative, features and news stories in aviation and business related issues and has been severally nominated for award in the category of Aviation Writer of the Year by the Nigeria Media Nite-Out awards; one of the Nigeria’s most prestigious media awards ceremonies. Ifeoma is a one-time winner of the prestigious Nigeria Media Merit Award under the 'Aviation Writer of the Year' Category. She is the 2025 Eloy Award winner under the Print Media Journalist category. She has undergone several journalism trainings by various prestigious organisations. Ifeoma is also a fellow of the Female Reporters Leadership Fellowship of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism.