Nigeria has impounded a British aircraft that is alleged to have flouted a ban aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus.

Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika said the plane, operated by FlairJet, was allowed to fly humanitarian aid but had contravened a ban on almost all passenger flights.

Describing Flairjet’s action as callous, he said the crew was being questioned and maximum penalties could follow.

The company has not commented on the seizure.

Nigeria’s ban on passenger flights - except for returning nationals - is due to run until 4 June.