United Nigeria Airlines has suspended a member of staff following allegations of maltreatment involving a passenger with reduced mobility, Ms. Doris Akonanya, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the airline’s Public Relations Officer, Chibuike Uloka, said the staff member would remain on suspension pending the outcome of a full internal investigation. The airline did not disclose the identity of the employee involved.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday during the check-in process for Flight UN0526 from Abuja to Yenagoa.
According to the airline, an internal report pointed to allegations of unprofessional conduct in the handling of the passenger’s condition, triggering public concern over the treatment of travellers with disabilities and reduced mobility.
Uloka said the airline maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct, discrimination, or abuse, stressing that the dignity and safety of all passengers remain central to its operations.
“We take this matter very seriously. The safety, dignity, and well-being of all our passengers remain our highest priority. We are firmly committed to providing safe, respectful, and accessible travel for all, particularly passengers with reduced mobility who require additional care and support,” the statement said.
The airline also issued a public apology to Akonanya and her family, acknowledging the emotional distress the incident may have caused.
Uloka described the episode as “regrettable and inconsistent” with the airline’s service standards and corporate values.
“This experience does not reflect our ethics, values, vision, or the standard of service we are committed to delivering,” he added.
United Nigeria Airlines said it has remained in direct contact with the passenger and her family and is working with relevant stakeholders to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The airline further assured the public that appropriate disciplinary action would be taken once investigations are concluded.
The case has renewed attention on the treatment of persons with disabilities in air travel, especially the need for airlines and airport service providers to uphold global standards of accessibility, care, and non-discrimination.
ADEOLA KUNLE
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