A passenger traveling on a Kenya Airways flight from Nairobi to Lagos died shortly before the aircraft touched down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Tuesday night, October 6. The Nigeria Police Force has taken over the investigation into the circumstances of the death, according to a statement from the airline and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Medical Emergency and Restraint During Flight
Kenya Airways confirmed in a statement on Wednesday, October 7, that a medical emergency occurred at approximately 9:20pm, roughly 20 minutes before the scheduled landing. The airline said its crew responded immediately, administering first aid and following standard emergency protocols.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, said he was briefed by the airline's country manager on Wednesday morning. He explained that the passenger had originally been denied entry into Madagascar by customs authorities and was subsequently picked up by Kenya Airways to be returned, as the carrier that had brought him into the region.
During the flight, Achimugu said the passenger grew increasingly restless and aggressive. He allegedly attempted to force his way into the cockpit and later tried to open the aircraft's rear door. To prevent further disruption and protect others on board, the crew restrained the passenger by tying his hands behind his back.
Police Take Over Investigation
The passenger was brought to Nigeria, where he was declared dead upon arrival. His identity had not been officially released at the time of this report. Achimugu noted that the deceased's family could request an autopsy as the investigation moves forward.
Achimugu confirmed that the police had taken over the matter and would be responsible for establishing a clearer picture of what transpired on board. The spokesperson for the Airport Command of the Nigeria Police Force, Muhammed Adeola, was contacted for comment but had not responded by press time.
Airline Response and Next Steps
Kenya Airways extended its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. The airline said it was cooperating with the family, local authorities, and aviation regulators, while being mindful of the privacy and dignity of those affected.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police expected to determine the exact cause of death and the sequence of events that led to the passenger's restraint and subsequent medical emergency.
