Detty December: Nigerians, Foreigners Face Harassment, Extortion At MMIA, Other Airports

Scores of Nigerians and foreign travellers have accused officials at Nigeria’s international airports, particularly the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, of harassment and extortion during the peak of the annual “Detty December” travel season.

The allegations followed the circulation of viral videos on Instagram showing passengers openly confronting airport officials and complaining of repeated checks, intimidation and demands for money before being allowed to proceed.

In one of the widely shared reels, a passenger was seen filming an encounter with security operatives while questioning the basis for what he described as unnecessary delays and harassment. The video triggered hundreds of comments from social media users, many of whom said the experience reflected what they routinely face at the airport.

Reacting in the comment section, a user wrote, “This is normal at MMIA. They will stop you for no reason and start asking for money before they let you go.”

Another commenter said, “They call it ‘small something’, but if you don’t pay, they frustrate you.”

Several Nigerians in the diaspora also shared similar experiences, noting that the treatment often sets a negative tone for returnees eager to spend the festive season at home.

“IJGBs come back to have fun, but the first problem starts at the airport,” a commenter stated.

Foreign travellers were not spared, according to reactions on the posts.

One user claimed, “Even foreigners are harassed. My friend was made to pay before he could board his next flight.”

Many commenters described the situation as embarrassing and damaging to Nigeria’s image, especially at a time when the country is promoting tourism and attracting diaspora investments.

“If Nigeria wants tourists, the airport experience must change,” another user wrote.

The complaints also reignited long-standing public criticism of alleged corruption and misconduct by some airport personnel. Several users called on the Federal Government and relevant agencies to intervene decisively, warning that repeated promises of reform had not translated into improved passenger experience.

Attempts by journalists to get immediate reactions from airport authorities on the specific viral incidents were unsuccessful as of press time.

However, in the past, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and other agencies have acknowledged complaints of passenger harassment and pledged zero tolerance for extortion.

Despite these assurances, travellers say the recurring allegations during this year’s Detty December suggest that the problem persists, leaving many visitors with unpleasant first impressions of the country during what is meant to be a festive and welcoming season.

@The Osun Defender