Victor EzejaThe Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has affirmed its supports for Nigeria’s largest indigenous airline, Air Peace, in its ongoing international route expansion, especially the recent launch of Lagos to London flight service.
The forum condemned what it described as unwarranted actions of Gatwick Airport authorities against Air Peace, particularly the denial of a traditional water salute, a customary gesture for inaugurating new flights.
The group bemoaned other acts of the Gatwick Airport authorities during the inaugural flight which it said amounted to being hostile to the airline.
“The actions of Gatwick Airport authorities are unwarranted, intimidatory, and must not be tolerated,” said Yerima Shettima, President General of AYCF.
“The blatant refusal to grant Air Peace’s request for a water salute, only to provide the same honor to another airline a mere two days later, is nothing short of hostility.
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“AYCF firmly stands against such discriminative 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).”
The AYCF further stated that the belated welcome address offered to Air Peace by the airport management after being called out, smacks of insincerity.
“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 pointed out.
He said said AYCF acknowledges and appreciates 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 organisations facing unfair treatment.
“We call on the international community, public figures, and fellow youth organisations to join us in condemning the actions of Gatwick Airport authorities and standing with Air Peace,” he said.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
