Protest at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport: Aviation Union’s Vice President Clarifies Intentions and Plans

Protest at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport: Aviation Union’s Vice President Clarifies Intentions and Plans

The recent protest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, led by the Vice President of the Aviation Union, Chris Omagbemi, was originally intended to specifically disrupt flights to Owerri, the capital of Imo State.

However, a mix-up occurred during the implementation of the protest on Thursday, leading to unintended disruptions affecting more than planned.

Original Design to Target Owerri Flights

Chris Omagbemi clarified that the initial plan was to block flights specifically destined for Owerri as a form of protest against the alleged maltreatment of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, in Owerri the previous week.

Unintended Disruptions on Thursday

Acknowledging the mix-up during Thursday’s protest, Omagbemi explained that the actions did not entirely go according to plan.

Despite this, he asserted that the union intends to carry out the protest more effectively on Friday, ensuring a complete halt of all flights to Owerri.

Warning from Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo

In response to the aviation-related protest, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, issued a warning to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) against disrupting flight operations in the country.

Keyamo emphasized the potential adverse consequences, affecting both local and foreign travelers, and tarnishing the country’s image.

Call for Distinction Between Labour and Politics

Minister Keyamo stressed the importance of distinguishing between labor activities and political activities, cautioning against mixing politics with the labor movement.

He condemned the recent assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero in Imo State and urged labor leaders to resist involving themselves in political activities that could harm the labor movement.

Appeal for Clarity in Labor and Politics

Highlighting that the current developments are rooted in political agendas rather than genuine labor concerns, Keyamo appealed to stakeholders to discern between labor activities and political movements. He urged the labor movement to avoid self-destruction on the platform of politics.