A video has surfaced on social media showing a confrontation between a Kenya Airways employee and a Nigerian traveller. In the footage, the employee instructs the passenger to “call your president,” which has generated controversy, especially amongst Nigerians.
This particular case allegedly involves a female Nigerian national who was refused boarding in Nairobi despite having a connecting flight.
The airline insists she didn’t have a Schengen visa to travel to Manchester via Paris and offered her an alternative to travel via London, which she refused. The passenger then requested accommodation, which the airline said was refused as it doesn’t provide it in cases where boarding is denied because of visa requirements.
The airline has confirmed the incident and announced that appropriate security agencies are investigating it, adding that it was committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its staff and passengers.
As reported on X, Kenya Airways claims that the video may be misleading and that the passenger lacked proper documentation while displaying unruly behaviour.
Nigerian authorities have reportedly called in a representative from Kenya Airways in Lagos regarding the incident and to look into several instances of mistreatment of Nigerian travellers in Nairobi.
This event has prompted varied reactions on social media, with some supporting the airline’s actions in light of the passenger’s conduct. In contrast, others criticise the way Kenya Airways staff managed the situation.
There are indications that Nigerian officials may be pursuing an apology or compensation from Kenya Airways and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA). Nevertheless, the specific details of these discussions remain unclear based on the available information.
