Dare Babalola
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has stated that there was no incident of an aircraft hijack at the Akure Airport, in Ondo State.
Debunking vital reports as false, the authority, in separate posts on X on Monday, noted that its earlier statement regarding a security operation around the airport did not in any way suggest a hijacking incident.
“There was no part of the press release that mentioned or suggested a ‘hijack.’ Please refer to the official statement for accurate information,” FAAN stated.
FAAN also denied a viral image circulating online, which was attached to an online publication, claiming it showed an incident at Akure Airport, stating that the image did not depict any event at the airport.
“This image is entirely false and does not represent any incident at Akure Airport. No gory scene occurred as depicted. Kindly refer to the attached press release for clarity,” the agency added.
FAAN had earlier confirmed the arrest of four suspected bandits within the vicinity of the airport in Akure following a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.
In a statement on Sunday, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, said the arrests followed a distress alert that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.
He added that some individuals attempted to flee the area, but four suspects were eventually apprehended and handed over to the police Area Command for further interrogation.
FAAN commended the collaboration among security agencies and local groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, noting that their joint efforts led to the arrest.
The authority also said the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with support from the Presidency, had accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports nationwide.
