BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Rumors have surfaced suggesting that airline staff, in cahoots with airport touts, are manipulating ticket sales to exploit unsuspecting passengers at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Two (MMA2) in Lagos.
Bicourtney Aviation services limited, (BASL) operator of MMA2 terminal in a statement refuted the allegations, saying “we pride ourselves on being the premier terminal, prioritizing an exceptional passenger experience above all.
“These claims necessitate a response grounded in factual clarifications, underscoring our unwavering commitment to a secure, transparent, and efficient airport environment.
The primary accusation according to BASL’s Airline Manager, Bisola Ademola-Davies was that ticket racketeering is rampant at MMA2, with one-way ticket prices inflated to as much as N250,000 due to collusion between airline staff and touts, adding that this claim is baseless and lacks credible evidence.
Ademola Davies stated that MMA2 operates under rigorous security and operational protocols designed to prevent such activities.
“Our internal monitoring systems have detected no signs of intentional hoarding of tickets or collaboration between airline staff and touts to inflate prices.
“Further allegations suggest that touts within the terminal are using private PoS machines for fraudulent payments. At MMA2, all ticket transactions occur at the airlines’ sales booths using their official payment methods.
“To combat any form of touting or illegal activities, MMA2 collaborates closely with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Aviation Security (AVSEC), and other relevant authorities. In June 2024, FAAN established a joint task force specifically aimed at addressing and reducing touting activities across all Nigerian airports”, the BASL’s airline manager noted.
Bisola-Davies affirmed, “MMA2 is in continuous dialogue with airlines to ensure their processes leave no room for practices undermining a seamless passenger experience, which we pride ourselves on. Our collective efforts have significantly curtailed illegal activities, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining this progress.
“The safety and security of our passengers are of paramount importance to MMA2. We have implemented robust measures, including advanced surveillance systems, comprehensive staff training, and regular security audits, to ensure a safe and seamless travel experience for all passengers”.
Monica Oguta, Head of Aviation Security at BASL, stated, “Our surveillance systems ensure strict adherence to security protocols within MMA2. Registered protocol officers, vetted by the Nigerian Police and BASL AVSEC, operate through their companies, not as individuals. Anyone found engaging in illegal activities will be blacklisted.”
Oguta reiterated, “Passengers are encouraged to buy tickets through authorized channels, with AVSEC personnel available for assistance. We collaborate with airline partners and regulatory authorities to maintain transparency and accountability in all operations.”
She stressed, “MMA2 remains a leading private terminal in Lagos, Nigeria, renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional passenger service. We continue to uphold the highest standards of safety, security, and efficiency in the aviation industry, reinforcing our dedication to serving the traveling public with integrity and excellence”.
Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, Head of Corporate Communications, added, “Anyone found engaging in illegal activities will face the full force of the law, reinforcing our zero-tolerance policy towards any form of misconduct. Our commitment to passenger safety is unwavering, and we continually strive to uphold the highest standards of security. Passengers should feel free to approach our help desks strategically located within the terminal; we are always here to help and address complaints. Our communications department is equally open to all.”
