Saudi Airlines has come under criticism after abandoning 401 Kano-bound passengers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, for close to 48 hours, triggering tension and security concerns. “Yesterday, I had to make a U-turn while heading to my barber’s shop after receiving reports of a valid threat of extreme violence from stranded Saudi Airlines passengers in Abuja,” Achimugu said. According to him, other airlines had also diverted to Abuja for the same weather-related reason, but while they made alternative arrangements for their passengers, Saudi Airlines returned to its base without ensuring that its passengers reached their final destination. “I stood amidst over 200 angry passengers, pacifying, reprimanding and resolving. Saudi Airlines, according to the NCAA, has committed to compensating the affected passengers.

Source: Punch January 12, 2026 12:27 UTC