Story by Iyiola Ayomide
Vendors Cry Out Over Unlawful Denial of Shop Spaces at Lagos International Airport
More than a year after making full payments and signing contractual agreements, several vendors at the newly built terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, have yet to be granted access to their allocated shop spaces by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
Investigations by CrimeWatch Newspaper reveal that despite fulfilling all stipulated requirements, affected business owners have been repeatedly denied access since 2023 without any official explanation from FAAN management or the Director of Commercial Services.
Many of these entrepreneurs secured bank loans to meet FAAN’s financial demands, only to be left in a state of uncertainty. The situation has placed a significant financial burden on them, with no clear resolution in sight.
Allegations of Favoritism and Forced Evictions
A group of affected shop owners described the situation as unprecedented in FAAN’s history, alleging that certain officials are manipulating allocations for personal interests.
“Existing tenants are being forced out of their shops without just cause, while those who have legally acquired spaces are denied access. This is an act of injustice and economic sabotage,” one vendor told CrimeWatch Newspaper.
Further findings indicate that this pattern of unfair treatment extends beyond the new international terminal. At the General Aviation Terminal (GAT), several yearly tenants were allegedly issued only one month’s quit notice, contrary to the terms of their agreements.
Financial Losses and Lack of Accountability
It was gathered that over 20 business owners were initially refused access to their shops, though some later gained entry through unclear selection criteria. However, many still remain locked out, with no refunds issued for their payments.
One affected vendor, who paid N2.86 million for a 29-square-metre shop, presented proof of payment but has yet to be allocated the space. Based on FAAN’s pricing, the standard rate per square metre is N60,000, in addition to a N1 million non-refundable agreement fee.
Legal Implications: Breach of Contract and Violation of Business Rights
The refusal to allocate paid-for shop spaces constitutes a clear breach of contract under Nigerian law. In particular, this action violates Sections 7 and 8 of the Contract Law of Nigeria, which emphasize that parties in a contractual agreement must honor their obligations.
Additionally, the Land Use Act of 1978 and the Tenancy Law of Lagos State mandate fair tenancy agreements and protection of occupants’ rights, meaning FAAN’s actions may amount to unlawful eviction and economic sabotage.
Legal experts consulted by CrimeWatch Newspaper affirm that affected vendors can seek redress under the Nigerian Commercial Law and fundamental business rights provisions, ensuring that FAAN is held accountable for any financial damages incurred.
FAAN’s Silence and Lack of Transparency
Repeated attempts to obtain FAAN’s response on this matter proved abortive. When contacted via phone, the General Manager, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Onah, claimed ignorance of the situation and promised to inquire from the relevant department. However, days later, she failed to provide any update.
Calls and WhatsApp messages sent to her by CrimeWatch Newspaper were ignored, raising further concerns about FAAN’s transparency in handling the issue.
Call for Government Intervention and Legal Action
With livelihoods at stake and millions of naira trapped in an unresolved dispute, affected vendors are calling on the Federal Government, the Lagos State Government, and relevant legal authorities to intervene. They are demanding:
Immediate allocation of their paid shop spaces in compliance with FAAN’s original agreements.
A full refund with damages for those who no longer wish to continue due to FAAN’s breach of contract.
Accountability for FAAN officials involved in the alleged misconduct and manipulation of allocations.
If FAAN fails to address the issue promptly, affected vendors have vowed to pursue legal action and seek justice through the appropriate courts, citing Nigerian laws that protect business owners from fraudulent and unjust practices.
As this story unfolds, CrimeWatch Newspaper remains committed to exposing any further irregularities and ensuring that justice is served.