The Federal Government has withdrawn the criminal complaint against Ms. Comfort Emmanson over her unruly behaviour on an Ibom Air flight and announced a reduction in the flight ban imposed on Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as KWAM 1.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN, said the decisions followed consultations with stakeholders in the aviation sector, the airlines involved, and security agencies.
According to Keyamo, Emmanson, who was previously banned for life by Ibom Air, expressed remorse during her police interview in the presence of her lawyer. “Following the withdrawal of the complaint by the airline, the Police and the Airport Command will facilitate her release from Kirikiri Prisons this week,” he said. The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have also agreed to lift the lifetime ban, with details to be announced soon.
For KWAM 1, the NCAA will reduce his flight ban to one month. Keyamo revealed that FAAN will work with the singer to promote proper airport security protocols. Criminal complaints earlier lodged against him by the NCAA with the Police have also been withdrawn.
The Minister added that Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba of ValueJet will have their licenses restored after a one-month ban and mandatory professional reappraisal.
Keyamo further announced a retreat for aviation security personnel and airline staff next week to improve training on handling disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations. The sessions will be covered by the press.
He emphasized that the decisions were made on compassionate grounds and do not undermine the government’s commitment to aviation safety and security.
“The above clemencies send a clear message that we take safety and security in the aviation sector seriously while also promoting fairness and rehabilitation,” Keyamo said.
