The Federal Government has withdrawn criminal complaints against Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) and passenger Comfort Emmanson, following consultations with industry stakeholders.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the decision was taken after both parties showed remorse over incidents that had drawn public attention to unruly behaviour in the aviation sector.
According to Keyamo, investigations revealed wrongdoing on the part of both the passengers and airline staff in the separate incidents. He stressed that all sides had “equal culpability” and that the resolution was reached after appeals from well-meaning individuals.
For Emmanson, the minister said Ibom Air agreed to withdraw its complaint after she expressed regret during a police interview. The Airport Police Command will work to facilitate her release from Kirikiri Correctional Centre this week, and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has agreed to lift her lifetime flight ban.
Regarding KWAM 1, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will reduce his flight ban to one month and withdraw its police complaint. He will also work with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) as an ambassador for airport security protocol.
Keyamo added that the NCAA will restore the licences of Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba of ValueJet after a one-month suspension and mandatory professional reappraisal.
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The minister also announced that aviation security personnel will undergo a retreat next week to improve their handling of disruptive passengers and de-escalation techniques. Airline staff conduct will also be reviewed.
“These decisions were taken on compassionate grounds,” Keyamo stated, warning that the government remains committed to safety and security in the aviation sector and “will draw the line after these clemencies.”
