Following an increase in the rate of incursion into the airside through the perimeter fence of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), the Military Airport Commandant, Group Captain ED Okolo, has issued a “A Restraining Order” against anyone caught trying to gain access into the runway of the airport through the perimeter fence.
The stowaways also risk being shot, the airport commandant said in a statement signed by the director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Obiageli Orah.
FAAN, however, expressed worry over the high rate of encroachment, emphasising that the occurrences undermine the safety and security of the airport.
“There has been incessant incursion into the airside of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, as a result, the Military Airport Commandant, Group Captain ED Okolo, has issued a ‘A RESTRAINING ORDER’ against anyone caught trying to gain access into the runway of the airport through the perimeter fence.
“It has been observed that there is an increased rate of incursion into the airside, through the perimeter fence, with far-reaching consequences. Furthermore, theft of Runway lighting occurred not too long ago. All these occurrences undermine the safety and security of the airport.
“The practice does not only undermine the security of the system but also imposes a huge financial burden on the Authority as damaged or stolen critical facilities must be replaced. FAAN, is therefore appealing to the general public to please desist from illegal incursion into the airport environment through the perimeter fence.
Perimeter encroachment is highly prohibited, and criminal offenders risk prosecution or possibly being shot at.
Every unauthorised or illegal structure around the airports would be pulled down. Be advised.
The Authority is also appealing to those who do not have any business at the airport to stay away. Anyone caught touting or loitering at the airport vicinity will be arrested and prosecuted. The Joint Military Task Force (JMTF) has intensified their operations and made several arrests recently.
Airport users are also advised to park at designated car parks. Please avoid parking at drop-off zones to avoid being towed,” FAAN stated.
