‎14-year-old caught attempting to stow away on aircraft at Lagos Airport

‎By Chinelo Obogo
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‎The Airport Police Command has intercepted a 14-year-old male, identified as Eke Miracle, in connection with a stowaway attempt at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos on Monday 30th March, 2026.
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‎The minor was discovered on the airport tarmac while attempting to  gain access beneath an aircraft.  Preliminary findings indicate that the juvenile entered a restricted area of the airport without authorization, contrary to Sections 2 and 3 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) byelaws, and engaged in actions consistent with a stowaway attempt.
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‎Upon interception, the minor was taken into protective custody in line with due process and established child protection procedures. His parents were promptly notified, and all necessary protocols were observed, including the conduct of the interview process in the presence of his parents. The Command also ensured that the minor was provided with appropriate care, support, and welfare considerations throughout the process.
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‎The Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, reiterated the Command’s resolve to safeguarding the nation’s aviation infrastructure, describing the airport as a critical national asset that requires strict adherence to security regulations at all times.
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‎While emphasizing that due process will be strictly followed, CP Ogunbode urged parents and guardians to exercise greater vigilance over their children and wards, particularly in relation to movements around restricted and high-risk environments such as airports.
‎The Command further notes that the case will be handled in accordance with applicable juvenile justice procedures, and the minor will be charged before the appropriate juvenile court.
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