The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered British Airways to pay N53 million in compensation to a Nigerian passenger, Mr. Stephen Osho, over breach of contract and unfair treatment.
In his judgment, Justice Ibrahim Kala awarded N50 million in general damages for the hardship, inconvenience, and financial losses suffered by Osho due to the airline’s negligence. An additional N3 million was granted to cover litigation costs, including legal fees, summons charges, and the impact of naira depreciation over the prolonged duration of the case.
The court found that British Airways failed to deliver Osho’s checked baggage on Flight BA307 from Paris to London on December 2, 2022, thereby violating its obligations under the international contract of carriage.
The airline, in its defence, argued that the passenger was responsible for his own predicament and urged the court to dismiss the suit. Its counsel further suggested that any compensation awarded should not exceed N60.
Justice Kala dismissed the submission as baseless and inconsistent with the evidence before the court, ruling in favour of Osho.
