United Nigeria Airlines has placed one of its employees on suspension following allegations of improper treatment involving a passenger with reduced mobility, Ms. Doris Akonanya, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the airline’s Public Relations Officer, Chibuike Uloka, who noted that the suspension will remain in effect pending the conclusion of a comprehensive investigation.
The identity of the staff member involved was not disclosed.
According to available information, the incident took place on Monday during the check-in process for Flight UN0526, which was scheduled to depart from Abuja to Yenagoa.
Preliminary findings from an internal review pointed to allegations of unprofessional conduct in the handling of the passenger’s condition, raising public concerns about how vulnerable travellers are treated.
Uloka emphasized that UNA has a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct, discrimination, or abuse.
“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 read.
The airline also issued an apology to Ms. Akonanya and her family, acknowledging the distress the incident may have caused.
Uloka described the situation as “regrettable and inconsistent with our service standards and corporate values.”
“This experience does not reflect our ethics, values, vision, or the standard of service we are committed to delivering,” Uloka stated.
He added that UNA has remained in direct contact with the passenger and her family, while also working with relevant stakeholders to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The airline further assured that appropriate disciplinary action will be taken once the investigation is completed.
