Ilorin – Security operatives at the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport in Ilorin arrested a man identified as Segun Martins on Wednesday after he attempted to hide inside the tyre compartment of an Overland Airways aircraft preparing for departure. The incident occurred at about 15:02 hours when Martins, believing the plane was bound for the United States, gained unauthorized access to the restricted airside area and crawled toward the aircraft as it taxied for takeoff, attempting to stow away near the landing gear.
Airport police personnel responded promptly, intercepted Martins before he could reach the tyre well and secured the suspect. He was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Police Command for further investigation.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirmed the episode through its spokesperson, Michael Achimugu, who said in a statement: “Ground security operatives intercepted the individual before he could access the tyre well. Investigations are ongoing to determine how the suspect breached airport security protocols.” Achimugu added that authorities are interrogating Martins to uncover his motives and to assess any potential lapses in security that may have facilitated the attempt.
Martins is currently being held by the Kwara State Police as the investigation continues. The NCAA has assured the public that it will take all necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
