You seem itching for answers, so here are my thoughts "answers":
On ATC Controller running away:
Probably, this particular controller wasn't paid a single Kobo since many months (maybe years? What's new, it's Nigeria). So he was showing up at work erratically (comprehensible reaction).
In a professional environment, the controller in question would review all the NOTAMS and necessary updates before taking a frequency. In a professional (normal) environment, FAAN would have turned off the runway lights and place large objects at the threshold of 19R to warn off accidental approaches. The fact that FAAN failed to train/retrain controllers, continues to treat its employees like desperate animals given the economic situation, and to seal the farce, fail to turn off a closed rwy's lights, is inviting new investigation into its profound shortcomings and general incompetence, especially in light of frequent accidents which cost hundreds of lives in the last 10 years alone (re: Hydro 747, ADC 727, etc.).
I sympathize with Hydro management, who obviously are making frantic efforts to ensure that their recent contracts aren't re-awarded to the likes of DAS Air Cargo and others who offer scheduled cargo srvcs. to/from Euro and are eager to swallow the fish.
Such is the reality in Nigeria, a land filled with opportunity and potential for some very handsome profit. At what cost though?
