United Nigeria Apologises To Akonanya, Suspends Staff Member For Unprofessional Conduct
The Management of United Nigeria Airline, a leading air transport company has apologised to Ms. Doris Akonanya, a passenger with reduced mobility over an alleged misconduct of one of its members of staff at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport.
Akonanya, an amputee, had complained in a viral video that she was given subhuman treatment in her attempt to catch a flight from Abuja to Yenegoa, Bayelsa State on March 30.
She said she had booked her flight and arrived at the airport early but she did not get the necessary assurance she needed a particular staff member who was supposed to check her for boarding in spite of her physical challenge.
She however exonerated the Airline for the unprofessional service delivery but called out the female staff member whom she said humiliated her for her condition to the dismay of all those present.
But a Statement signed by Chibuike Uloka, Public Relations Officer of UNA on Wednesday condemned the incident and expressed sincere apology to her family for the pain it may have caused her.
UNA said the action did not reflect the ethics, values and vision of the company adding that the safety, dignity, and well-being of all passengers remained their priority.
“United Nigeria Airlines wishes to confirm receipt of an incident report involving a passenger with reduced mobility, Ms. Doris Akonanya, during the check-in process for Flight UN0526 from Abuja to Yenagoa on March 30.
“The report includes allegations of unprofessional conduct by a particular staff regarding her condition.
“We operate a zero-tolerance policy for any form of misconduct, discrimination, or abuse, and we are firmly committed to providing safe, respectful, and accessible travel for all.
“We are particular about passengers with reduced mobility who require additional care and support,” he said.
United Nigeria announced immediate suspension of the staff member and commencement of full investigation into the ugly incident.
The company said it had reached out to the family of Akonanya to apologie to them directly and assured them of the administrative measures being taken to ensure those responsible were disciplined and forestall future recurrence.
The management assured members of the public of the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive travel environment where every passenger was treated with dignity and respect.
“We have been in direct contact with the passenger and her family, extended our apologies, and ensured that their concerns are addressed.
“The staff member involved has been suspended and a full investigation commenced,
“We are engaging all relevant parties to establish the facts and will take appropriate action in line with our policies of zero tolerance to any form of misconduct.
“We will continue to strengthen our training, processes, and oversight to prevent a recurrence,” he said.
