Aviation workers have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the removal of the Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, following an alleged assault on Igbafe Afegbai, the Director of Security at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The unions, which include the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), also called on President Bola Tinubu to redeploy all Customs officers involved in the assault.
A letter obtained by newsmen on Sunday indicated that the ultimatum began on March 7, 2025, and will expire on March 21. The unions warned of serious consequences unless their demands are met, citing what they described as “excesses and misbehaviors” by NCS officers.
The unions also called for a reduction in the number of customs personnel at airports nationwide, particularly at Lagos airport, to align with global standards. In the joint letter, signed by their secretaries, the unions accused the Customs officers of mistreating Afegbai, a retired Assistant Commissioner of Police.
The unions further stated that if the Customs officers are not redeployed within the 14-day period, aviation workers cannot guarantee peace and harmony within the Lagos airport. They also urged FAAN to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with all paramilitary agencies at airports to clearly define their roles, responsibilities, and scope of work.
When contacted, Afegbai confirmed the incident, explaining that he and some senior FAAN staff had gone to replace a faulty security machine temporarily borrowed from Enugu airport. However, the Customs officers insisted that the machine was illegal and meant for export.
Despite efforts to clarify the situation, a Deputy Controller of Customs, identified only as Yusuf, allegedly ordered reinforcements to harass and prevent them from installing the machine.
