Borno State Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur and over 100 passengers narrowly escaped a tragic incident when a Max Air aircraft suffered an engine failure shortly after take-off from Maiduguri International Airport.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday as the deputy governor and other passengers were en route to Abuja. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft experienced engine trouble moments after becoming airborne, prompting the pilot to execute an emergency landing back at Maiduguri Airport.

While authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the malfunction, sources disclosed that Max Air swiftly arranged an alternative flight to ensure the deputy governor reached Abuja safely.

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A source close to the airline, who requested anonymity, disclosed that investigations are underway, and the affected aircraft remains grounded for extensive repairs. Many passengers, shaken by the ordeal, opted to cancel their travel plans.

Max Air has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. The airline’s Maiduguri Manager, Mr. Musa Bawuro, acknowledged awareness of the situation but refrained from commenting, saying, “Please give me time to find out from the captain.”

Efforts to obtain a response from the deputy governor’s media aide, Bulama Talba, were unsuccessful as he declined to comment on the matter.

The narrowly averted disaster highlights ongoing concerns about aviation safety in Nigeria, with authorities expected to thoroughly investigate the incident to prevent future occurrences.

Credible News.ng