The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has dismissed reports of an attempted aircraft hijack at Akure Airport, describing the claim as false and misleading.
In separate posts on X (Formerly Twitter) on Monday, the authority clarified that its earlier statement about a security operation around the airport did not in any way suggest a hijacking incident.
“There was no part of the press release that mentioned or suggested a ‘hijack.’ Please refer to the official statement for accurate information,” FAAN stated.
The authority also dismissed a viral image circulating online and attached to an online publication, stating that it was unrelated to any event at the airport.
“This image is entirely false and does not represent any incident at Akure Airport. No gory scene occurred as depicted. Kindly refer to the attached press release for clarity,” the agency added.
FAAN had earlier confirmed the arrest of four suspected bandits within the vicinity of the airport in Akure following a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.
In a statement on Sunday, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, said the arrests were made after a distress alert reported that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.
He added that some of the individuals attempted to flee the area, but four suspects were eventually apprehended and handed over to the police Area Command for further interrogation.
FAAN commended the collaboration among security agencies and local groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, noting that their joint efforts led to the arrests.
The authority also stated that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with support from the Presidency, had accelerated the installation of modern perimeter fencing and strengthened security infrastructure at airports nationwide.
