Air Vice Marshal Obierika Dies Mid-air On British Airways

By Adesina Soyooye

A retired Nigerian Air Force Senior Officer, Air Vice Marshal Osita Obierika, has died mid-air on a British Airways flight en route Abuja from Heathrow Airport, London.

An accomplished Officer and gentleman man, fondly called “Prof”, he was a native of Enugu- Ukwu,  Anambra State.

Allegedly in his early 80’s, he has been  battling with cancer-related ill-health in London and had, also had treatment at Philadelphia, USA. A mourning colleague lamented that the late AVM had assured him he would be on his feet soon.

It is not known why he left London,  but speculation is that he may have been told that the end was near, prompting him to take the difficult decision to fly back home.

A reliable source at the Abuja Airport, said a number of senior officers were there waiting to receive him on arrival when the news of his passing on board the flight was broken to them. They were devastated, the source said.

The  fight which was scheduled to arrive Abuja, Nigeria, by 5.00am, Monday, having departed Heathrow by 11.00pm, Sunday, declared an onboard emergency, and diverted to Barcelona’s El Prat Airport, to land.

It is not known if his body was deposited at a funeral home in Barcelona pending when an arrangement will be made to fly him home or if he would be brought back to Abuja on a rescheduled BA flight after protocols.

The stress, allegedly, triggered  another medical emergency on board, this time of  an unnamed pregnant woman whose condition waa not yet known at the time of filing this report.

An email to passengers by British Airways apologized for the disruption.

‘’Passengers are advised to expect an email with more information and can reach out to the airline’s Live Chat feature for support. British Airways acknowledges the inconvenience and thanks passengers for their patience and understanding,” the airline told the affected passengers in a general message.

An update from the airline mid-afternoon Monday informed that: “We’d like to advise that the replacement aircraft for your flight to Abuja is now on its way. The estimated time of departure from Barcelona is 14:50 local time, with arrival into Abuja expected at approximately 17:45 local time. We understand the inconvenience caused and thank you for your patience. We look forward to welcoming you on board soon. British Airways”

The late AVM Obierika was very beloved and well regarded and respected in the Airforce. He was of the NDA 1973 set.