By Erewunmi Peace

A retired Nigerian Air Force officer, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Osita Obierika (rtd), has died onboard a British Airways flight en route from London to Abuja, prompting an emergency diversion to Barcelona, Spain in the early hours of Monday, October 7.

According to multiple reports, the incident occurred about two hours into the flight when the veteran officer suffered a medical emergency at an altitude of approximately 30,000 feet. The pilot immediately declared a medical emergency, and the aircraft diverted to El Prat Airport, Barcelona, where medical personnel were on standby. Unfortunately, Obierika was pronounced dead upon landing.

Sources close to the family revealed that the retired Air Vice Marshal had been receiving cancer treatment in the United Kingdom and was returning to Nigeria after a medical trip when the tragedy occurred.

Born in Anambra State, AVM Obierika was a highly respected Air Force officer, known for his professionalism and contributions to national service before his retirement. His death has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s military community and among colleagues who described him as a disciplined, patriotic, and humble leader.

Neither British Airways nor the Nigerian Air Force has issued an official statement as of press time, but tributes have begun to pour in from associates and the aviation community.

The flight later continued its journey to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, after the necessary procedures were completed in Barcelona.