A viral video of a heated altercation between a Kenya Airways (KQ) staff member and a Nigerian passenger at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) has sparked an intense online debate between Kenyans and Nigerians. Kenyans, Nigerians Engage in Online War After Passenger Threw Used Sanitary Pads at KQ Staff Source: Getty Images The incident unfolded when the passenger, travelling from Lagos to Nairobi and then onward to Paris and Manchester, was denied boarding. Why Nigerian passenger was denied boarding by KQ The drama started when she was informed she lacked the required Schengen Visa for her connecting flight to Paris, which is essential for entry into any European Union country.
Kenya Airways offered an alternative route through London, which the passenger refused. This led to further tensions, as the passenger demanded accommodation, which the airline clarified it could not provide in cases where boarding is denied due to visa issues. It is the passenger’s responsibility to ensure they have the proper documentation for international travel. However, the situation took a disturbing turn when the passenger allegedly removed and threw three used sanitary pads at KQ employees, triggering widespread condemnation. Kenyans, Nigerians engage in online war The incident quickly went viral, sparking a fierce online war between Kenyan and Nigerian netizens. Kenyans voiced their anger over the passenger’s actions, with many condemning the disrespect towards KQ staff and calling for mutual respect in customer service. Nigerians, on the other hand, rallied behind their fellow citizen, questioning the airline’s handling of the situation and accusing KQ staff of mistreating the passenger.
@RonyoKev: “Our people must be respected. You can’t throw a used sanitary pad at anyone and expect to be treated with love. If you are visiting Kenya you should respect our country and our people.” @DanChepta: “The Kenya Airways staff demonstrated substandard customer service. While the customer is not always correct, this interaction exemplifies unacceptable customer handling.” Nyandarua’s Finest: “You can’t threaten airport staff that you’re gonna call the minister of finance bla bla, you could’ve called him and asked for a private jet.” @wanza_: “Why would such a person walk around with used sanitary towels in her handbag?? What was she planning to do with them?”
KQ responds to viral incident about Nigerian passenger Kenya Airways responded by condemning the passenger’s behaviour, emphasizing that such conduct was unacceptable. The airline stressed that while it remains committed to providing excellent service, all interactions must be conducted with mutual respect. KQ also clarified that it does not provide accommodation when boarding is denied due to visa-related issues, reiterating that passengers are responsible for ensuring they have the required documentation. The airline confirmed that the incident is under investigation by relevant security agencies and promised to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and dignity of both passengers and staff.
by Hillary Lisimba
