ByJanet Oyeleye
The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has directed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, to impose a N25,000 fine on Peter Obi for wrongful parking at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and to demand a public apology from him.
The directive followed an internal inquiry instituted by the Minister, Festus Keyamo, after Obi alleged in a recent interview that airport security staff “unjustly” clamped his vehicle, suggesting a “persecution agenda” by the Federal Government.
According to the Ministry, CCTV footage showed that on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at 8:28pm, a vehicle conveying Obi was driven into the domestic wing’s drop-off zone and left unattended for about 30 minutes in a prohibited area.
The Ministry stated that airport regulations require drivers to remain behind the wheel in designated drop-off zones. It noted that security personnel clamped the tyres only after all occupants, including the police driver, had exited the vehicle and entered the terminal.
“The excuse that there were other offenders cannot be an excuse for anyone aspiring to be President of Nigeria. He must live above board,”
— Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development
The Ministry said the vehicle was later released after Obi spoke with the manager on duty, without the stipulated fine being paid.
It has therefore directed FAAN to ensure Obi pays the appropriate N25,000 fine and tenders an unreserved public apology to the airport staff for alleging they acted unjustly.
The Ministry warned that failure to comply within one week would compel FAAN to take further enforcement steps. It also released CCTV footage to the public to clarify the incident.
It stressed that the principle of equality before the law applies to all users of Nigeria’s airports and that security rules at aviation facilities must be obeyed to safeguard passengers and infrastructure.
