A retired Nigerian Air Force Senior Officer, Air Vice Marshal Osita Obierika, has died mid-air on a British Airways flight en route Abuja from Heathrow Airport, London.
An accomplished Officer and gentleman man, fondly called “Prof”, he was a native of Enugu- Ukwu, Anambra State.
It is not known why he left London, but speculation is that he may have been told that the end was near, prompting him to take the difficult decision to fly back home.
A reliable source at the Abuja Airport, said a number of senior officers were there waiting to receive him on arrival when the news of his passing on board the flight was broken to them. They were devastated, the source said.
The fight which was scheduled to arrive Abuja, Nigeria, by 5.00am, Monday, having departed Heathrow by 11.00pm, Sunday, declared an onboard emergency, and diverted to Barcelona’s El Prat Airport, to land.
It was gathered that the BA pilot had announced the medical emergency mid-flight at 1.30 am and that the ensuing confusion also triggered another medical emergency involving an unnamed pregnant woman, the outcome of which our correspondent could not verify as of time of reporting this.
It was learnt that the victim was in his early 80’s and was a citizen of Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria.
It was further gathered that British Airways apologised to traumatised passengers even as efforts are ongoing to ensure that a new aircraft departs the Barcelona airport at 2pm today. They are expected to land in Abuja at 7pm local time.
According to messages shared with the passengers, the airline apologised for the disruption and assured passengers that the Customer Care team would be available to assist with any questions or concerns.
‘Passengers are advised to expect an email with more information and can reach out to the airline’s Live Chat feature for support. British Airways acknowledges the inconvenience and thanks passengers for their patience and understanding,” the airline told the affected passengers in a general message.
Further update from the airline at about noon on Monday, however, moved the flight by some 45 minutes, saying: “We’d like to advise that the replacement aircraft for your flight to Abuja is now on its way. The estimated time of departure from Barcelona is 14:50 local time, with arrival into Abuja expected at approximately 17:45 local time. We understand the inconvenience caused and thank you for your patience. We look forward to welcoming you on board soon. British Airways”
