The airline’s spokesman, Uloka Chibuike, stated in a press release that the passenger became unruly and disregarded the crew’s warnings, posing a significant safety threat to the flight.

A passenger was removed from a United Nigeria Airlines flight at Benin Airport in Edo State on Tuesday after allegedly failing to comply with crew instructions to turn off his mobile phone during pre-flight safety checks.

The airline’s spokesman, Uloka Chibuike, stated in a press release that the passenger became unruly and disregarded the crew’s warnings, posing a significant safety threat to the flight.

The airline said despite repeated requests and attempts to de-escalate the situation, the passenger exhibited abusive behaviour towards the flight crew, prompting the airline to return the flight to the gate and remove the passenger.

The passenger was subsequently handed over to airport authorities for further investigation and appropriate action.

The statement reads: “United Nigeria Airlines wishes to address an incident that occurred on flight 50573 from Benin to Lagos. During pre-flight safety checks, a passenger refused to comply with a crew member’s instruction to power down their mobile device, a critical safety measure.

“Despite repeated requests and attempts to de-escalate the situation, the passenger exhibited unruly behavior, including the use of abusive language towards flight crew members. This behavior posed a significant safety risk to the flight, its crew, and other passengers.

“In accordance with aviation safety regulations and company policy, the flight was returned to the gate, and the passenger was subsequently deboarded. The passenger was then handed over to airport authorities for further investigation and appropriate action.

“United Nigeria Airlines prioritises the safety and security of all passengers and crew members above all else. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for any behaviour that threatens the safety of flight operations.

“We reiterate our commitment to providing a safe and comfortable travel experience for all our passengers.”

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