The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has clarified that the case involving Comfort Emmanson, the passenger accused of assaulting Ibom Air crew members, differs from the incident involving Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1
Mike Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, made the remarks during an X Space session on Monday.
He explained that the NCAA did not instruct Ibom Air to prosecute or ban Emmanson; rather, the airline acted independently based on the evidence it had.
“In this case, the airline exercised its rights based on the evidence available, even though investigations are ongoing. When you see a passenger assaulting cabin crew members and resisting those who tried to restrain her, it’s understandable that the airline felt justified in imposing a ban,” Achimugu said.
He added that the ban might be shortened or lifted once the investigation concludes but emphasized that airline staff deserve the same respect and courtesy as passengers.
“No one deserves to be assaulted the way it happened on that flight. Airline staff are human beings, fellow Nigerians — brothers and sisters — who deserve protection,” he stressed.
Achimugu also noted that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) acted within its rights to ban the passenger and cited previous incidents where regulatory action was hindered by lack of evidence.
He recalled an airport incident involving three intoxicated passengers on a flight from London to Nigeria, which endangered the flight, yet no advisory was issued because the NCAA did not receive sufficient evidence.
“To be clear, the NCAA did not issue any advisory to AON regarding Emmanson. AON has the right to blacklist or ban any passenger based on their own assessment,” he said.
He further contrasted the Ibom Air case with the KWAM 1 incident, pointing out that while Ibom Air promptly charged Emmanson in court, ValueJet did not press charges against KWAM 1, prompting the NCAA to petition the authorities.
Achimugu affirmed that airlines have the right to pursue legal action, but the matter could still be resolved amicably.
He also explained the role of cabin crew in ensuring passenger safety and security, stating that restraining an unruly passenger—such as blocking their path—is within their rights.
“Restraining without physical violence is standard practice, though methods can evolve. I will consult with the director at the NCAA to review the procedures,” he concluded.
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 has clarified that the case involving Comfort Emmanson, the passenger accused of assaulting Ibom Air crew members, differs from the incident involving Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1){kind=link}
Kwan1 should be in jail too.
Hmmm