After the strike organized by the Nigerian Labor Congress (NLC) on Tuesday, Turkish Airlines reportedly suspended its flight services to Nigeria and left more than 300 passengers stranded at Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA).
Unfair Layoffs and Protests
The NLC claimed that Turkish Airlines unjustly dismissed approximately seven out of 11 Nigerian staff since 2020, blatantly disregarding existing Nigerian laws. The union called for the reinstatement of staff members who were allegedly forced to resign or were coerced to leave their positions under pressure from THY.
Passenger Distress and THY’s Response
Passengers arriving from Nigeria learned that the airline had suspended its flight services until the crisis was resolved following Tuesday’s strike. According to a source close to MMIA, the airline left over 300 passengers stranded at Lagos Airport while returning to Istanbul empty on the same day.
NLC’s Reaction and Actions
The NLC mobilized its members nationwide to protest the airline’s operations in Lagos. In a statement regarding the suspension of the airline’s activities in Lagos, NLC Deputy Secretary-General Chris Ufot emphasized the need for all member unions to mobilize intensively for this action.
Dispute and Future Steps
According to the Nigerian Labor Congress, THY management continues its determined efforts to sideline the union from the airline. The union alleged that the management dismissed seven of its members through fabricated charges and by using a disciplinary committee created outside negotiated existing service conditions.
NLC’s Demands and Warnings
The NLC emphasized the need for THY to rehire the dismissed staff and instructed to initiate a strike until these demands were met. The union stated that THY’s unjustified dismissal of employees undermined their long years of service and that they would not tolerate such actions.
Awaiting Response from Turkish Airlines
Efforts to reach any member of Turkish Airlines’ management in Nigeria have been unsuccessful. The airline’s response to the crisis and its future steps are eagerly awaited.
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