FG Drops Case Against Ibom Air Passenger, Slashes KWAM 1’s Flight Ban

The Federal Government has withdrawn criminal proceedings against Ms. Comfort Emmanson, the Ibom Air passenger accused of unruly conduct, and reduced the suspension imposed on Fuji music legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, announced the decisions on Wednesday after consultations with aviation stakeholders and a review of both incidents.

According to Keyamo, the resolutions followed appeals from respected individuals, expressions of remorse from the parties involved, and the need to foster a conciliatory approach in the sector.

Ibom Air Passenger Case

Ibom Air has formally withdrawn its complaint against Ms. Emmanson, who was arrested over an August 10 incident on a Lagos–Uyo flight. She had refused to switch off her mobile phone when instructed, became physically aggressive, and struck a flight attendant before being escorted off the aircraft at Murtala Mohammed International Airport.

“When the police took her statement in the presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct,” Keyamo said.

Following the withdrawal, the Airport Command and police prosecutor will work to secure her release from Kirikiri Prison this week. The Airline Operators of Nigeria has also agreed to lift the lifetime flying ban earlier imposed on her, with details to be disclosed soon.

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KWAM 1 Ban Reduced

In the August 5 incident involving KWAM 1 at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reduced his flying ban to one month. The Fuji star had caused a disruption while attempting to board a ValueJet flight carrying a prohibited flask, allegedly pouring its contents on crew and security personnel and obstructing aircraft movement.

Keyamo disclosed that the ban reduction also applies to ValueJet’s Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba, whose licenses will be reinstated after mandatory professional reappraisal. Additionally, the NCAA will withdraw its criminal complaint against KWAM 1, and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will appoint him as an ambassador for airport security protocols.

Keyamo revealed that a retreat will be held next week to retrain aviation security personnel on managing disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations. Airlines will also have special sessions to address staff conduct towards travellers.

He emphasised that the clemencies were granted purely on compassionate grounds, stating:

“Government will never pander to base sentiments, politically motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws is involved. We have decided to draw a line after these clemencies.”