The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced the withdrawal of criminal complaints against Ms. Comfort Emmanson and music star Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as KWAM 1, following recent incidents of unruly behavior at Nigerian airports.
According to Keyamo, the decision was made after consulting with critical stakeholders in the aviation sector and reviewing the incidents, including appeals made by well-meaning individuals and remorse shown by the actors. Keyamo stated that “valuable lessons have been learnt by all sides to these incidents and airport security protocol, especially, have been well highlighted for the travelling public.”
The Case of Ibom Airline and Ms. Comfort Emmanson
- Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who was involved in an incident on an Ibom Airline flight on August 10, 2025, has been granted clemency, with the airline withdrawing its complaint against her.
- Following her statement to the police, where she exhibited “great remorse for her conduct,” the police and prosecuting authorities will facilitate her release from Kirikiri Prisons within this week.
- The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has agreed to lift the lifetime flying ban imposed on her, with details of the resolution to be made public subsequently ¹ ².
The Case of ValueJet and Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (KWAM 1)
- KWAM 1’s flight ban has been reduced to a one-month period, and the NCAA will withdraw its criminal complaints against him, recognizing his public demonstration of penitence.
- The Federal Aviation Authority (FAAN) will work with KWAM 1 as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward.
- Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba of ValueJet will have their licenses restored after a one-month ban, pending completion of required professional retraining ³ ².
Future Measures
- Keyamo has directed all relevant aviation agencies to conduct a retreat next week to retrain airport security personnel on handling disruptive passengers and de-escalating potential conflicts.
- Airlines will also participate in sessions focused on improving staff conduct towards travelers.
Compassionate Grounds
The decisions were taken purely on compassionate grounds, with Keyamo emphasizing that “Government will never pander to base sentiments, politically-motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws are involved.” He added that the actions send a “clear message that we take safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously” and that a line has been drawn after these clemencies.