14-year-old Nabbed Over Stowaway Attempt At Lagos Airport

The Airport Command of the Nigeria Police Force has intercepted a 14-year-old boy, identified as Eke Miracle, over an alleged stowaway attempt at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mohammed Adeola, said the minor was discovered on the airport’s tarmac while attempting to gain unlawful access beneath an aircraft.

Adeola described the act as a serious breach of aviation security protocols within a highly restricted operational environment.

“Preliminary findings indicate that the juvenile unlawfully entered a restricted area of the airport without authorisation, contrary to Sections 2 and 3 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) byelaws, and engaged in actions consistent with a stowaway attempt,” he said.

He added that the boy was immediately taken into protective custody in line with established child protection procedures.

“His parents were promptly notified, and all necessary protocols were observed, including conducting the interview process in their presence. The Command also ensured that the minor received appropriate care, support, and welfare throughout the process,” Adeola stated.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, Ogunbode Olufunke, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding aviation infrastructure, describing airports as critical national assets requiring strict compliance with security regulations.

While stressing that due process would be followed, the police commissioner urged parents and guardians to monitor their children more closely, particularly around restricted and high-risk environments such as airports.

The Command noted that the case would be handled in line with applicable juvenile justice procedures, adding that the minor would be charged before the appropriate juvenile court.

It reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety, security, and order within the aviation ecosystem, while also upholding the rights and welfare of minors.