Air Peace files $3.5 million lawsuit against NLC

Nigeria’s privately owned airline Air Peace has filed a $3.5 million lawsuit in the Federal High Court in Lagos against the Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and their respective authorities for a row that disrupted its operations last month.

The airline reportedly claims $2.1 million in general damages, $948,535 in special damages, and $526,916 in exemplary damages from the unions for disruptions it faced on May 3 at Lagos Murtala Muhammed Airport (LOS). NLC was represented by President Joe Ajaero and Secretary General Emmanuel Ugboaja, while TUC was represented by President Festus Osifoh and General Secretary Nuhu Toro.

On May 3, there were reports of flight delays and cancelations following protests by members of the unions mentioned above. The protests were in retaliation to the alleged intimidation of workers during the May 1 celebrations in Imo state.

The carrier claims that the mobs belonging to the unions disrupted its operations, damaging property, injuring employees, and ruffling customers and staff. Although the protests were directed at the Imo state governor, Air Peace felt the effects as it canceled flights to the Abuja and Owerri airports.

The private carrier has asked the court for an injunction to protect itself against acts of intimidation and coercion from the defendants. However, it claims that the unions have ignored the lawyer’s letters, threatening more riots and disruption of operations.

Air Peace says that on May 3, it suffered financial losses and reputational damage after the protestors approached some employees. According to the court file, the rioters disrupted work, flipped tables, and unplugged desktops, injuring some staff members and passengers.

The songs sung and the conduct of the protestors made it clear to Air Peace that they were members of the NLC and TUC. Its lawyers also sent letters to the union representatives seeking compensation for the damages caused. According to ch-aviation.com, the airline said;