AWLA Condemns Dehumanizing Treatment of Female Passenger by Ibom Air Crew and Airport Security

The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), Nigeria – Lagos Branch, led by Coordinator Adesola Bello, has expressed deep shock and outrage over the disturbing incident involving a female passenger who was forcefully removed from an Ibom Air flight following an argument with a crew member. Disturbingly, the passenger was allegedly stripped naked during the process.

AWLA describes this conduct as unacceptable, degrading, and a blatant violation of the victim’s dignity and fundamental human rights guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and international conventions such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

The association strongly condemns the unprofessional and inhumane behavior of the airline crew and calls out the complicity of airport security officials who are mandated to protect passengers but instead participated in or allowed this humiliating act.

This incident highlights an urgent need for:

1. 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).
2. Immediate suspension and sanctions against all crew and security personnel involved pending the investigation’s outcome.
3. Comprehensive training and retraining of airline and airport staff on passengers’ rights, conflict de-escalation, and gender sensitivity.
4. Adequate compensation and a public apology to the victim for the psychological trauma, physical exposure, and reputational damage suffered.

AWLA reiterates its firm stance against any form of violence, humiliation, or abuse targeting women and girls. The association pledges to continue advocating for the protection of women’s rights, demanding accountability, and ensuring swift justice in cases like this.

AWLA calls on all stakeholders in the aviation sector to uphold respect and humanity towards passengers at all times, regardless of disputes or operational challenges.