A formal complaint has been filed against Qatar Airways by Chief Jibrin Samuel Okutepa, SAN, alleging degrading treatment, wrongful denial of boarding, and a breach of contractual obligations during his recent Abuja–Doha–Toronto trip.
The complaint, issued through his legal representatives, details what he describes as an unfair and humiliating travel experience linked to ticket number QQ32CHOD.
According to the complaint, Okutepa purchased a business class return ticket after Qatar Airways advertised a package that included a transit visa and hotel accommodation in Doha.
He reportedly submitted all required documents within 24 hours, and the airline confirmed receipt.
His lawyers claim Qatar Airways assured him the visa would be processed before the trip.
They state that he arrived early for check-in in Abuja and again raised concerns about the missing visa.
The airline staff allegedly told him the visa would be issued in Doha upon arrival.
He then boarded the Abuja–Doha flight based on this assurance.
However, the complaint says he was shocked to discover no visa awaited him in Doha.
Despite an eight-hour layover, he was allegedly denied the hotel accommodation included in the ticket package.
The lawyers say he endured long hours inside the airport without rest or support.
He eventually continued the trip to Toronto after what he described as an agonising wait.
After attending the International Bar Association Conference, Okutepa returned to the Toronto airport for his scheduled flight to Abuja.
He was allegedly denied boarding on claims that he lacked a transit visa to Doha.
According to the complaint, his explanations fell on deaf ears.
He reportedly spent over four hours pleading with airline staff for assistance.
Qatar Airways allegedly insisted he must pay an additional $5,000 to adjust his ticket.
He refused, describing the demand as exploitative and unfair.
He was then asked to leave the airline’s office as staff closed operations.
Forced to remain in Toronto, he secured a hotel room at his expense.
He later purchased an Ethiopian Airlines business class ticket for $3,668.13 to return home.
His lawyers say the ordeal caused emotional, psychological, and financial trauma.
They argue that Qatar Airways breached its contract by failing to provide the promised visa and hotel.
They also accuse the airline of negligence and unfair commercial practice.
The complaint demands a written apology accepting responsibility for the ordeal.
It also seeks a refund of the unused portion of his Qatar Airways ticket.
Additionally, the lawyers request reimbursement for all expenses he incurred as a result of the disruption.
They also demand $500,000 in damages for distress, humiliation, and harm to his dignity.
The airline has been given fourteen days to comply with the demands.
Failure to do so, they warn, will lead to immediate legal action in a Nigerian court.
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