The Lagos State Magistrate Court, Ikeja Magisterial District, has adjourned the case involving three passengers charged with unruly conduct aboard Air Peace Flight No. P4 7579, which traveled from London to Lagos on February 12, 2025.
The accused, Adewale Adedigba (52), Magnis Ashibuogwu (50), and Iwunze Benjamin (30), were arraigned on charges related to causing a public disturbance and violating aviation regulations during the flight.
According to the police, the defendants caused a major disruption around 8:00 PM while aboard the international flight, shouting loudly and creating panic among fellow passengers and crew members.
Their actions were deemed to have breached the peace under Section 168(1)(d) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
The situation reportedly escalated further when the trio unlawfully moved from their designated economy class seats to the business class section, without authorization.
This unauthorized shift in seating is alleged to have violated Section 4(1)(a)(b) of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Bye-Law 2005.
The actions of the passengers prompted a swift response from the airline staff, who reported the incident to the authorities upon landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja.
Airport police arrested the passengers shortly after the flight’s arrival, leading to their formal arraignment before the court.
The prosecution, represented by Superintendent of Police (SP) Oladipupo Taiwo, emphasized the importance of enforcing strict aviation laws to maintain order and prevent similar disruptions in the future.
The case is being handled by the Airport Command, which is tasked with addressing incidents related to aviation security and law enforcement.
During the court session, the magistrate opted not to record the defendants’ plea, instead adjourning the matter until March 3, 2025, to allow time for both the defense and the prosecution to prepare their arguments.
The potential penalties for the defendants, if found guilty, may include hefty fines or imprisonment, depending on the severity of their offenses and the court’s findings.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts to enforce aviation regulations and curb unruly behavior that can disrupt air travel.
Air travel authorities are particularly concerned with maintaining safety and comfort for passengers, as any disorderly conduct can create a dangerous environment during flight.
The adjournment grants both sides ample time to gather evidence and present their respective cases, and the final ruling will likely set an important precedent for addressing similar incidents in the future.
For now, the three passengers remain under scrutiny as their legal proceedings continue in Lagos court.
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