BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
For the umpteenth time, the management of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), has reaffirmed its strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of violence within the terminal premises, especially against personnel engaged in the lawful discharge of their duties.
The Head, Corporate Communications Department, BASL Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, who stated this in a statement said the latest incident that has prompted the strong reiteration occurred on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at approximately 13:18hrs.
The statement said a disruption broke out at the check-in area of one of the airlines operating at MMA2, triggered by passengers reportedly agitated over a system-related issue.
In the process of managing the situation and attempting to calm the aggrieved passengers, a male traveler physically assaulted an on-duty Aviation Security (AVSEC) officer.
The disturbing event, BASL noted, bears troubling similarity to an earlier assault in December 2024, where another staff member was attacked while on duty. BASL expressed deep concern over this growing trend and strongly condemned the act, describing it as completely unacceptable.
“The safety and dignity of every individual working within MMA2 is non-negotiable,
“We are deeply concerned by the recurrence of such attacks on our personnel and will not hesitate to take decisive action to protect all individuals who work at MMA2. All passengers and terminal users are expected to resolve grievances through lawful and respectful means. Our staff are here to assist and must be treated with dignity”, company said.
The assaulted officer received immediate support, and the incident was promptly escalated to law enforcement.
The offending passenger was apprehended and handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution. BASL has pledged to monitor the case closely to ensure that appropriate legal consequences follow.
Yinka-Olawuyi emphasised that MMA2 is a public facility designed to serve passengers efficiently and with respect, adding that the terminal management will not tolerate any behavior that undermines the safety, morale, or well-being of its workforce.
“Violence of any kind, whether verbal or physical, not only endangers individuals but also disrupts the seamless operations of our terminal. We are committed to fostering a secure, respectful environment for all users of MMA2 and will continue to work with relevant authorities to enforce our zero-tolerance policy.”
The terminal operator urged all passengers to remain patient during service disruptions and to channel complaints through the appropriate customer service avenues available within the terminal.
