In a recent development, aviation unions have taken a decisive step by directing workers in the industry to withdraw flight services to Owerri Airport in Imo State, effective from the midnight of November 9, 2023.
This action, as stated in a joint statement made available to the media, is in response to the alleged maltreatment of Joe Ajaero, the President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), by the Imo State Government last week.
The unions involved in this decision include the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Association Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCCSTRE). They underscored the necessity of the flight service withdrawal, citing the need to address what they termed as ‘bestial tendencies’ displayed by the Imo State Government.
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Moreover, the unions have declared Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State persona non-grata at all airports in Nigeria until he “purges himself of bestial tendencies.” Not stopping at domestic measures, the unions have also pledged to seek international support to blacklist the governor globally.
This move has raised concerns about the potential impact on air travel and transportation in the region, as Owerri Airport serves as a significant hub for both domestic and international flights.
