BY Olapeju Olubi
As leading Nigeria flag carrier, Air Peace, battles to consolidate on the Lagos-London route amid a raging price war, Arewa youths have lampooned the management of Gatwick Airport for peppering the airline with discriminatory practices aimed at frustrating it out of the lucrative route.
The youths, speaking through their union, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) said it was stoutly backing Air Peace on the London service, especially in its ongoing standoff with Gatwick Airport authorities over the denial of a traditional water salute, a customary gesture for inaugurating new flights.
According to Yerima Shettima, President General of AYCF, “the actions of Gatwick Airport authorities are unwarranted, intimidatory and must not be tolerated.
“The blatant refusal to grant Air Peace’s request for a water salute, only to provide the same honour to another airline two days later is nothing short of hostility.
“AYCF firmly stands against such discriminatory practices. The treatment Air Peace received on its inaugural day was deplorable, with a dysfunctional check-in area that hampered passenger experience due to a non-operational carousel (luggage belt).
“It is a shameful display of bias and unprofessionalism for Gatwick Airport authorities to suddenly decide to extend a welcome to Air Peace nearly two weeks after the incident. This delayed response reeks of insincerity and is an insult to every well-meaning Nigerian,” Shettima stated.
AYCF President, however, acknowledged and appreciated the overwhelming support from Nigerians across tribes and ethnicities, who have rallied behind Air Peace, showcasing their unity against such antics.
“We commend the vocal support of all well-meaning Nigerians which has begun to bear fruit in bringing attention to this issue.
“The AYCF demands fair treatment and equal opportunities for all airlines operating in Nigeria. It is imperative that Gatwick Airport authorities rectify their actions and apologize for the unwarranted treatment Air Peace has faced.
“We remain committed to championing the rights of Nigerian businesses and lending support to all organizations facing unfair treatment. We call on the international community, public figures, and fellow youth organizations to join us in condemning the actions of Gatwick Airport authorities and standing with Air Peace,” Yerima added.
