Retired Air Vice Marshal Reportedly Dies Mid-Flight on London–Abuja British Airways Plane
Retired Air Vice Marshal Reportedly Dies Mid-Flight on London–Abuja British Airways Plane
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
A retired Nigerian Air Vice Marshal reportedly passed away onboard a British Airways (BA) flight en route from London to Abuja, prompting an emergency diversion to Barcelona, Spain, in the early hours of Monday, October 6, 2025.
According to reports circulating on Nairaland Forum, the flight, which departed London’s Heathrow Airport at about 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, was expected to land at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by 5:00 a.m. However, midway through the journey, the pilot reportedly declared a medical emergency after the elderly passenger was found unresponsive.
Medical Emergency Forces Diversion to Barcelona
At approximately 1:30 a.m., the aircraft was diverted to El Prat Airport in Barcelona, where emergency medical personnel were on standby. Sources quoted in News360 Nigeria said the deceased, believed to be in his early 80s, had been unwell and was returning to Nigeria for further treatment before he passed away mid-flight.
The sudden development reportedly caused distress among other passengers, with accounts suggesting that a pregnant woman onboard also experienced health complications during the incident. Her condition was yet to be confirmed at the time of this report.
British Airways Responds to the Incident
In a message to passengers, British Airways expressed regret over the disruption and assured them of assistance. The airline confirmed that a replacement aircraft was arranged to continue the journey to Abuja, with an updated departure time of 2:50 p.m. local time and an expected arrival at 5:45 p.m. Nigerian time.
The airline’s statement read in part:
“We apologise for the disruption caused by this unfortunate incident. Passengers are advised to check their emails for further updates or contact our Live Chat service for support. British Airways appreciates your patience and understanding.”
Identity Controversy Emerges Online
While early reports claimed the deceased was a retired Air Vice Marshal from Anambra State, later online comments alleged that he might have been Air Vice Marshal Omatshola Okorodudu from Delta State. Some posts further alleged that the deceased had recently been treated at a Kenyan hospital, where his remains were reportedly held over unpaid medical bills.
The conflicting accounts have stirred confusion about the true identity of the deceased officer. Akahi News could not independently verify the claims, as no official confirmation had been issued by the Nigerian Air Force or family representatives at the time of publication.
Silence from Authorities
Efforts by Akahi News to obtain comments from the Nigerian Air Force and British Airways’ Abuja office were unsuccessful, as nobody spoke with our correspondent at press time.
The incident has drawn sympathy across online platforms, with Nigerians expressing condolences to the family of the late officer and calling for clearer information from relevant authorities.
Akahi News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more verified details emerge.
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