Staff of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in Kano have staged a peaceful protest accusing the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) of encroachment into their land.
The Secretary to the Security Committee of the Aviation Quarters in the state, Mr Obadeki Muhammad Mustapha, while addressing journalists on Saturday, shortly after conducting a peaceful protest, alleged that personnel of the Nigeria Air Force have recently started developing a piece of land on which their recreational ground is located.
He further alleged that NAF personnel also intimidated them by stationing their armed men to stop the FAAN personnel from accessing the lands.
Mustapha also noted that FAAN Authorities owned the property for the past 45 years.
He further called on the all relevant authorities to step in with a view to resolve the matter amicably.
During the peaceful protest the staff of FAAN, including men and women, came out en mass chanting solidarity songs and holding placards with various inscriptions.
The protesters threatened to shut down Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, if adequate measures were not taken to resolve the matter.
When contacted NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, told reporters that the land in question belonged to the NAF and that they have documented evidence to that effect.
He explained that there was no need for FAAN to engage in a public protest and taking the matter out when it could be settled amicably.
He appealed to the aviation staff to calm down saying “the issue would be addressed amicably as we have been enjoying a peaceful coexistence for a long time.”
Those who participated in the protest are staff of FAAN, NAMA, NiMET, NCAA, and AIB.
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