The Digest:
A Nigerian man was arrested at the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport in Ilorin, Kwara State, after he was discovered attempting to travel illegally by hiding in the landing gear compartment of a commercial aircraft. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon as the Overland Airlines flight was preparing for departure.
Key Points:
- The suspect, identified as Segun Martins, was spotted by ground security while attempting to conceal himself between the aircraft's tires.
- He reportedly believed the plane was destined for the United States and intended to use the method to seek "greener pastures."
- The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation into the security breach.
- Martins was arrested by airport police and is currently in custody pending further investigation.
- Stowaway attempts, though rare, have been recorded at other Nigerian airports, including Lagos and Benin.
- Most previous incidents involved individuals on domestic flights, not international routes as intended by the suspect.
- The event highlights ongoing concerns about perimeter security and access control at the nation's airports.
Sources: NCAA statement
