By Abigail Philip David
The Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) has terminated the employment of a staff member accused of extorting and harassing a passenger at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The dismissed employee, along with other airport personnel, allegedly extorted ₦100,000 from Oyewale Oyesiji, an automobile engineer and first-time traveler to South Africa, in December.
Following the complaint, SAHCO launched an internal investigation through a panel of inquiry, which found the staff member guilty. Based on the panel’s findings, the management acted in line with Nigerian labor laws and immediately dismissed the employee.
A source within SAHCO, who requested anonymity, confirmed the dismissal and emphasized the company’s zero-tolerance stance on misconduct. “The management swiftly set up a panel to investigate the allegation. After the panel confirmed the staff member’s involvement, the report was implemented, and the individual was dismissed,” the source stated.
SAHCO is reportedly planning to meet with the affected passenger to provide an update on the action taken.
While the Head of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Vanessa Uansohia, declined to comment on specific details, she reaffirmed the company’s commitment to professionalism and integrity.
“We condemn any act of extortion, harassment, unethical behavior, or misconduct among our staff or operations,” Uansohia said. “SAHCO operates a strict zero-tolerance policy against corruption, and this case is being thoroughly investigated.”
