United Nigeria Airlines, UNA, has suspended a staff member following allegations of maltreatment involving a passenger with reduced mobility, Ms. Doris Akonanya, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In a statement on Wednesday, the airline’s Public Relations Officer, Chibuike Uloka, said the staff member would remain suspended pending the outcome of a full investigation. The airline did not disclose the employee’s name.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday during check-in for Flight UN0526 from Abuja to Yenagoa. An internal report indicated claims of unprofessional conduct in handling the passenger’s condition, sparking public concern over the treatment of vulnerable travelers.
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.
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The airline extended a public apology to Ms. Akonanya and her family, acknowledging the emotional 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. That UNA has maintained direct communication with the passenger and her family and is engaging relevant stakeholders to ascertain the full details of the incident.
The airline said appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken once investigations are concluded.
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