FG Withdraws Case Against Ibom Air Passenger, Cuts KWAM 1’s Flight Ban to One Month
The Federal Government has dropped its criminal complaint against Ms. Comfort Emmanson, the Ibom Air passenger accused of unruly behaviour, and reduced the flight ban placed on Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1.
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, SAN, made the announcement on Wednesday after consulting with industry stakeholders and reviewing the incidents. He said the decisions were influenced by appeals from respected individuals and the remorse shown by the parties involved.
Comfort Emmanson’s Case
Emmanson was arrested on August 10, 2025, after refusing to turn off her phone during an Ibom Air flight from Lagos to Uyo, later assaulting a flight attendant. She was removed from the aircraft and banned for life by the airline.
Following the latest resolution, Ibom Air has agreed to withdraw its complaint, while the Airport Command and police prosecutor will begin procedures for her release from Kirikiri Prison this week. The Airline Operators of Nigeria also plans to lift her lifetime flying ban, with details to be disclosed soon.
KWAM 1’s Incident
On August 5, 2025, KWAM 1 was involved in a disruptive incident at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport when he attempted to board a ValueJet flight with prohibited alcohol in a flask. After refusing to surrender it, he allegedly poured the contents on crew and security staff, then moved onto the tarmac, delaying the flight.
Initially facing a longer suspension, his ban has now been reduced to one month. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will also withdraw its criminal complaint, and KWAM 1 will serve as an ambassador for airport security awareness.
The one-month ban will also apply to ValueJet’s Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba, who will regain their licenses after completing mandatory professional reappraisal.
Policy Changes and Training
Minister Keyamo added that a retreat will be held next week to retrain aviation security personnel on managing disruptive passengers and improving conflict de-escalation. Airlines will also undergo sessions to enhance staff conduct towards travellers.
“These clemencies were granted purely on compassionate grounds,” Keyamo said, stressing that the government will remain firm in enforcing aviation safety laws.
