AWLA Nigeria Condemns Dehumanising Treatment Of Female Passenger By Ibom Air Crew.
The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria – Lagos Branch has issued a strong condemnation of the appalling treatment of a female passenger by Ibom Air crew and airport security officials. The incident, which occurred on a recent flight, saw the passenger forcibly removed from an aircraft following a dispute with a crew member, during which she was allegedly stripped naked.
Adesola Bello, Coordinator of AWLA Nigeria – Lagos Branch, expressed profound shock and outrage at the incident, describing it as a grave violation of the passenger’s dignity and fundamental human rights. These rights are protected under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and international agreements, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), to which Nigeria is a signatory.
The association condemned the unprofessional and inhumane actions of the airline crew and the complicity of airport security officials, whose role is to ensure passenger safety, not to partake in or enable acts of humiliation. AWLA highlighted the incident as a stark reminder of the need for systemic change within the aviation sector to safeguard passengers’ rights and dignity.
In response, AWLA has called for immediate action, including a thorough and independent investigation by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The association demands the suspension and sanctioning of all involved crew members and security personnel pending the investigation’s outcome. Furthermore, AWLA is advocating for comprehensive training for airline and airport staff on passenger rights, conflict resolution, and gender sensitivity.
The association also insists on adequate compensation and a public apology for the victim, who endured psychological trauma, physical exposure, and reputational damage. AWLA reiterated its unwavering commitment to combatting violence, humiliation, and abuse against women and girls, vowing to pursue accountability and justice in this case.
AWLA has urged all stakeholders in the aviation industry to uphold respect and humanity in their interactions with passengers, regardless of operational challenges or disagreements. The association’s stance serves as a powerful call to action for the protection of women’s rights and the promotion of dignity in all public spaces.