The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered Qatar Airways to pay a former lawmaker, Honorable Chukwuemeka Ujam, a refund of $3,000 and N4.8 million in exemplary damages and costs for canceling his business class flight to the United States without prior notice.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment on Thursday in the suit marked FHC/ABS/CS/1990/2022 against the airline. In his writ of summons, Ujam, through his lawyer Chibuike Maxwell, stated that the airline canceled his flight without giving the required 3 to 7 days’ notice by text message, call, or email, as stipulated by relevant laws in the airline industry.
Maxwell argued that airline customers are entitled to compensation and reimbursement of the ticket price in the event of flight cancellation. However, despite reaching out, Qatar Airways allegedly refused to reimburse his client, causing severe damages and difficulties for the plaintiff, who was a panelist and representative of Nigeria in a high-profile U.S. international program.
The ex-lawmaker sought a declaration that Qatar Airways’ alleged flight cancellation was unlawful and a breach of duty, and that compensation should be paid. He also requested an order compelling the airline to pay $3,000 for the cost of a replacement Lufthansa business class ticket, N30 million in general and exemplary damages, and N1.8 million in legal costs.
In its defense, Qatar Airways’ witness from Lagos denied any wrongdoing. However, Justice Omotosho held that the defense’s claim was “hearsay,” as the witness was not in Abuja where the infraction occurred. The judge expunged the airline’s testimony and relied on the exhibits submitted by the applicant regarding the timeline of the flight cancellation.
Justice Omotosho granted all the reliefs requested by the applicant, except that the damages were reduced to N3 million with a 10% monthly interest on the total judgment sum until fully liquidated.
The court’s decision serves as a reminder to airlines of their obligations to customers and the consequences of failing to adhere to industry regulations regarding flight cancellations and compensation.