By Vivian Okejeme
A Nigerian passenger, Mr Amechi Michael, has dragged British Airways to the Federal High Court, Abuja, over an alleged missing carry-on luggage.
Mr Abiola Olaitan and Mr Shuaib O. Hammed of Parvina Partners appeared for the plaintiff, while Mr John Godwin, holding the brief of Mr Folorunsho Majiyagbe (SAN) and Mrs Ngozi Ukanwa of J.B. Majiyagbe & Co., represented the defendant.
The plaintiff, had in a suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1293/2025, is seeking recovery of his carry-on luggage allegedly lost during a delayed boarding process after a cabin crew member requested that it be handed over for safekeeping.
According to the plaintiff, the incident was reported to the airline’s customer care service and he was subsequently referred to the UK-based Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) for resolution.
The plaintiff stated that the arbitrator issued an award in his favour in respect of the flight delay but did not address the issue of the missing carry-on luggage.
Dissatisfied with the arbitral decision, the plaintiff rejected the award and approached the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeking redress over the alleged loss of the luggage.
He contended that British Airways owed him a duty of care to return the luggage and alleged that the airline’s staff acted negligently.
At the resumed hearing, the plaintiff, Mr Amechi Michael, was cross-examined by defence counsel, Mr Godwin.
Counsel to the plaintiff subsequently informed the court of their intention to close the plaintiff’s case.
Justice Egwuatu thereafter adjourned the matter until July 2 for defence and continuation of trial.
