Ile-Ife, Nigeria – The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed outrage over a disturbing incident involving a helicopter pilot and a student from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). A video that has gone viral shows the pilot, identified as operating a helicopter with registration number 5N-BVT, owned by Elin Air, physically assaulting the student who was reportedly attempting to take photographs beside the aircraft.
In the footage, the student is seen pleading with the co-pilot, who initially approached him in a calm manner. However, the situation escalated when the pilot intervened without provocation, subjecting the student to violent treatment that included kicking and slapping.
NANS spokesperson, Comrade Adeyemi Samson, condemned the pilot’s actions as “embarrassing” and “deeply troubling,” especially given that he is a licensed aviation professional expected to maintain a standard of psychological and emotional stability. Samson stated, “Even if the student’s action was considered inappropriate, it does not justify the degrading, violent, and inhuman treatment meted out to him.”
He further emphasized that this incident constitutes a gross violation of the student’s fundamental rights, particularly their right to dignity. NANS has pledged its support for the Great Ife Students’ Union, which is also calling for accountability and justice in this matter.
In light of the incident, NANS is urging the Federal Ministry of Aviation and relevant regulatory bodies to conduct an immediate investigation. They are advocating for appropriate sanctions against the pilot and calling for the implementation of regular capacity-building workshops and mandatory psychological assessments for aviation personnel to ensure public safety.
“The rights, dignity, and welfare of Nigerian students must be defended at all times,” Samson asserted.
Elin Air has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident, but the pressure is mounting for them to address the serious allegations and maintain the integrity of their operations in the aviation sector.
