The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially withdrawn its criminal complaint against Ms. Comfort Emmanson, the passenger previously accused of unruly behavior aboard an Ibom Air flight, and has reduced the flight ban 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 following extensive consultations with stakeholders across the aviation sector. The resolutions were reached after reviewing both incidents, considering appeals from well-meaning Nigerians, and acknowledging the remorse shown by the individuals involved.
Ms. Emmanson, who was arrested after a disruptive episode aboard an Ibom Air flight on August 10, expressed deep remorse during her police interview. In light of this, Ibom Air has agreed to withdraw its complaint, and the Airport Command, along with the police prosecutor, will facilitate her release from Kirikiri Prison this week.
Additionally, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has agreed to lift the lifetime flying ban previously imposed on her. Further details regarding her reinstatement as a passenger will be announced soon.
In a separate case involving KWAM 1 and an altercation with ValueJet staff, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reduced his flight ban to one month. The criminal complaint against him will also be withdrawn. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) plans to engage the musician as an ambassador for airport security protocol, leveraging his public influence to promote better conduct among travelers.
ValueJet’s Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba, also involved in the incident, will have their licenses restored after serving a one-month suspension and undergoing mandatory professional reappraisal.
To prevent future occurrences, the Ministry has directed all aviation and complementary agencies to hold a retreat next week focused on retraining security personnel in managing disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations. Airlines will also conduct sessions to improve staff conduct toward travelers.