The Federal Government has withdrawn criminal complaints against Ms. Comfort Emmanson and music star Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (KWAM 1) over interruption of flight from Lagos to Calabar and Abuja- Lagos flight.respectively.
The decision dropping a formal complaint was announced by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo,( SAN) on Wednesday,.
He also said the federal government also announced lifted the flight bans placed on the dand restoring licenses, signaling a fresh approach to resolving conflicts in the aviation sector.
Ibom Air incident has continued to generate debates in Nigeria.
The incident has continued to generate debates in Nigeria.
Ms. Comfort Emmanson, involved in an altercation on an Ibom Air flight on August 10, 2025, will see charges against her dropped after showing “great remorse” during her statement to the police, according to Keyamo.
“Her sincere regret and the appeals from well-meaning Nigerians have paved the way for this compassionate decision,” he said.
According to the Minister, Ibom Air has agreed to withdraw its complaint, and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) will lift the lifetime flying ban imposed on her. Emmanson is expected to be released from Kirikiri Prisons within the week, with AON set to provide further details on the resolution.
KWAM 1’s Path to Redemption
Similarly, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reduced the flight ban on Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as KWAM 1, to one month, following his public apology for his conduct.
Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, widely known as KWAM 1
Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1)
He said NCAA will also withdraw its criminal complaints against him. In a forward-looking move, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) plans to engage the music star as an ambassador for airport security protocol.
“KWAM 1’s willingness to make amends presents an opportunity to turn a negative incident into a positive campaign for better conduct,” Keyamo noted.
Restoring Trust in Aviation Personnel
The government’s response extends to airline staff involved in the incidents. The NCAA will restore the licenses of ValueJet’s Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba after a one-month suspension, pending a mandatory professional re-appraisal.
“This balanced approach ensures accountability while giving professionals a chance to redeem themselves,” Keyamo said.
A Call for Systemic Change
Beyond individual cases, the minister said the government is taking proactive steps to address systemic issues.
Keyamo has directed aviation agencies, in collaboration with other stakeholders, to hold a retreat next week to retrain security personnel on handling disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations. The retreat will be open to press coverage, ensuring transparency. Additionally, airlines will undergo sessions to review staff conduct toward passengers.
“We aim to foster a culture of respect and professionalism across the board,” Keyamo emphasized.
While the decisions reflect compassion, Keyamo stressed that the government remains unwavering on aviation safety.
“These clemencies are a one-time gesture. Going forward, we will enforce strict compliance with aviation laws to ensure the safety and security of all travelers,” he warned.