Turkish Airlines axes 7 Nigerian staff for $600K ticket racketeering
Turkish Airlines has recently made headlines after the dismissal of 7 Nigerian staff members, sparking a flurry of allegations and counterclaims between the airline and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) in Lagos, Nigeria.
The airline asserts that the decision to terminate employment of these individuals stemmed from their involvement in various ticketing reservation violations, which allegedly inflicted a substantial economic loss on the company, amounting to over $600,000.
NUATE claims THY undermines the union, while THY provides legal evidences
This development comes shortly after NUATE staged a protest against Turkish Airlines, resulting in flight disruptions and leaving approximately 300 passengers stranded. NUATE contends that the dismissals were orchestrated as a measure to undermine the union, accusing the airline of fabricating charges against its members.
In response, Turkish Airlines released a statement refuting NUATE’s claims, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and accountability. According to the airline, the dismissals were a result of thorough disciplinary proceedings, during which evidence of misconduct by the employees was presented.
Despite offering the option for voluntary resignation, only 3 out of the 7 employees chose to leave their positions. The remaining 4 employees, despite initially expressing interest in resigning, later declined to do so. Turkish Airlines alleges that NUATE refused to endorse the disciplinary actions taken against its members, opting instead to threaten industrial action if the employees were not reinstated.
NUATE disrupts services, threatening THY’s operations
The dispute escalated further when NUATE followed through on its threats, picketing Turkish Airlines’ operations at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, disrupting services for over 2 hours. Subsequently, Turkish Airlines sought legal recourse, initiating proceedings at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) to challenge the legality of NUATE’s actions.
In response to the unrest, the NICN issued formal injunctions against NUATE and its affiliates, restraining them from engaging in any activities that could disrupt the airline’s operations. Despite these legal interventions, Turkish Airlines asserts that NUATE’s actions have caused significant financial losses and operational disruptions.
THY condemns NUATE’s illegal actions, which caused financial loss
Turkish Airlines has emphasized its long-standing commitment to its passengers and employees in Nigeria since commencing operations in 2006. While affirming its support for employee participation in unions, the airline condemns NUATE’s alleged illegal actions, which it believes contradict principles of transparency and management.
As the conflict between Turkish Airlines and NUATE continues to unfold, observers are keenly watching to see how both parties will navigate this challenging situation while safeguarding the interests of passengers and employees alike.
