BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Luck ran out on a middle-aged man attempting to steal electrical cables and equipment inside the powerhouse of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) was electrocuted, recent investigations have revealed.
The unidentified man managed to gain access to the power generating building and began disconnecting the installations that supply power to Lagos airport before meeting his tragic end.
Confirming the incident, the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Kuku, stated on Monday that the agency is committed to closing all loopholes that allow unauthorized access to the airports. Speaking at the commissioning of 30 Special Forces who will secure the Lagos airport, she noted that individuals have crossed perimeter fences to steal airfield lighting equipment or potentially harm workers on site.
Mrs. Kuku said; “Our environment is quite unique in the sense that we have nationwide security issues, We’ve been quite lucky within the airport environments not to have had major incidents, but we do have individual issues.
“We’ve had people either crossing our fence to steal our airfield lighting equipment or potentially harm some of our workers. Recently, an individual entered our powerhouse and was electrocuted.”
Mrs. Kuku emphasized that FAAN has been preparing for the unveiling of this security apparatus for the past six months, addressing funding and the arming of aviation security staff.
According to her, Significant investments have been made in the armoury, personnel training, and acquisition of arms and ammunition.
Addressing the newly commissioned security personnel, Kuku said, “You have been specially selected to be part of this unit. This is a special unit. Hopefully, there won’t be any need to use your arms, but rather to leverage this as a deterrent. It is critical that you work closely with other security agencies at the airport to keep the environment safe and secure.”
She continued, “You’ve probably seen news about illicit behaviors at the airports. There have been all sorts of activities we need to put pressure on. I’m happy to have you on board and excited to see how you perform your duties.
The FAAN boss added, “We have launched a major war against corruption, touting, and illicit activities at all our terminals nationwide. Today, we’re collaborating with all security agencies, especially with the Air Force’s intelligence unit, the police, and the civil defense.”
She concluded, “Today marks a remarkable day in our journey. We expect you to make us proud. We are counting on you and rest assured that you have our full support.”
