The Federal Government has announced the withdrawal of criminal complaints against Ms. Comfort Emmanson and music icon Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (popularly known as KWAM 1) over separate incidents of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports.
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Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, after consultations with key stakeholders in the aviation sector.
According to Keyamo, the decision followed appeals from well-meaning individuals, remorse expressed by the parties involved, and the need to move forward while strengthening airport security protocols.
Case of Ibom Air and Ms. Comfort Emmanson
Ms. Emmanson, who was arrested on August 10, 2025, after a disturbance aboard an Ibom Air flight, will have her case dropped following an agreement between the airline and the government.
Keyamo said Emmanson showed “great remorse” when questioned by police in the presence of her lawyer. Her release from Kirikiri Prisons is expected this week after police complete formalities.
The Minister also confirmed that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have agreed to lift the lifetime flight ban imposed on her, with details to be announced later.
Case of ValueJet and KWAM 1
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reduced KWAM 1’s flight ban to one month and will withdraw its criminal complaint against him.
Keyamo revealed that the Fuji legend will also be engaged as an ambassador for proper airport security protocols.
ValueJet pilots Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba will have their licences restored after a one-month suspension and mandatory professional reappraisal.
Reforms in Aviation Security
The Minister directed aviation agencies to hold a retreat next week, in collaboration with other security bodies, to retrain personnel on handling disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations.
Airlines will also have a separate session to address staff conduct towards passengers.
Keyamo stressed that the decisions were made on compassionate grounds and should not be seen as condoning lawlessness.
“This is a clear message that we take safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously. These clemencies mark a line after which infractions will be met with full enforcement of the law,” he said.
