A female passenger on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Abuja is set to face prosecution for causing a flight delay that led to its eventual cancellation.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Director of Public Affairs and Consumers’ Protection, Michael Achimugu, confirmed the incident.

The disruption occurred last Wednesday on a flight scheduled to depart Uyo at 5:30 PM. Passengers were informed beforehand that some luggage might not be loaded due to weight restrictions. However, the passenger in question became agitated upon realizing her bag was not among those loaded.

Leaving the aircraft in anger, she insisted her luggage must be on board before the flight could depart. Despite interventions from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel, Ibom Air staff, and even the pilot, who offered to carry her bag in the cabin if not for its size, she refused to cooperate.

As Uyo operates as a sunset airport, the delay caused by her actions resulted in the flight’s cancellation when the airspace was about to close. Reports indicate that other passengers were on the verge of physically attacking her before security personnel intervened.

Authorities have emphasized the seriousness of the disruption and assured that the passenger will face legal consequences.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismantled the headquarters of the proscribed Ibom Youth Council, arresting three members for alleged activities threatening the state’s peace.

According to Police Public Relations Officer ASP Timfon John, the group, banned by Governor Umo Eno, was reportedly procuring arms and conducting military training in preparation for a planned disruption of law and order as 2024 ends.

“Acting on credible intelligence, a joint security team raided the group’s headquarters at Ikot Isighe, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area,” John said. “Members fled upon the team’s arrival, but three suspects were apprehended, and the building was demolished.”

Evidence suggested the group intended to escalate unrest into the new year, including attacks on security formations and private properties.

The police, backed by the state government, have vowed to uphold Akwa Ibom’s reputation as Nigeria’s most peaceful state. Citizens have been urged to report suspicious activities, and landlords warned against leasing properties to individuals or groups involved in criminal activities.

“Properties used for crimes will be demolished, and owners treated as accomplices,” the statement emphasized.

The Nigerian Army has successfully combated oil theft and reduced criminal activities in Akwa Ibom State, according to Brig. Gen. Jafaar Ibrahim, Commander of the 2 Brigade.

Speaking at the 2 Brigade Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) at the Military Cantonment in Mbiokporo, Nsit Ibom LGA, Ibrahim highlighted the success of military operations aimed at disrupting oil theft and degrading criminal elements in the region.

He noted that the army’s Anti-Illegal Bunkering Operations have significantly minimized oil theft, which has contributed to boosting national oil production and strengthening the economy. Additionally, operations such as the Operation Delta Safe Joint Task Force South South (Sector 4) and Operation Thunder have been effective in neutralizing criminal groups in the state.

Ibrahim emphasized that the ongoing operations have greatly reduced security threats, restoring confidence among Akwa Ibom residents. He reiterated the army’s commitment to collaborating with other security agencies to maintain peace and security in the state.

The commander also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. O.O. Oluyede, for his continuous support and leadership, which has helped transform the army into a more effective and formidable force.