Popular Fuji star, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, known as Kwam 1, has tendered an apology following the August 5, 2025 incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In a statement personally signed on Friday, the veteran singer expressed regret over the controversy but insisted that the flask he carried that day contained only water, contrary to claims it held alcohol.
“The incident that occurred at the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was, to say the least, unfortunate.
“Unknown to many, I suffer from chronic dehydration, and my doctor strongly advised that I remain constantly hydrated. This is why I always carry a water flask with me. Contrary to the negative narrative being circulated in some quarters, the flask contained only water — not alcohol.”
Kwam 1 further explained that the flask was empty during two separate security checks and was only filled with water at the airport lounge before he proceeded to the tarmac, clarifying that he had not boarded the aircraft at the time, “let alone being deboarded,” adding that CCTV footage could confirm his account.
The Fuji star extended apologies to the Presidency, the Ministry of Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, ValueJet, and Nigerians in general.
“I acknowledge and deeply regret the concerns that arose from the incident. It was never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols. My unwavering patriotism and loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria have never been in doubt. I would never do anything to tarnish the image I’ve built over the past five decades,” he said.
K1 reaffirmed his dedication to his role as a cultural ambassador for Nigerian music and expressed gratitude to his fans for their continued support.
Keyamo, FAAN, NCAA, react to Kwam 1’s airport incident
The New Daily Prime reported earlier that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had confirmed Kwam 1 involvement in the disruptive incident.
In a statement released on Wednesday, FAAN disclosed that the music icon allegedly spilt alcohol on an aviation security officer who attempted to inspect the contents of a flask he was carrying. The incident occurred on August 5 at the domestic terminal and has since led to the suspension of two ValueJet pilots.
According to FAAN, the Olori’ba of Ijebuland, who was scheduled to fly from Abuja to Lagos aboard ValueJet Flight VK 201, violated aviation safety protocols when he refused to comply with standard security checks involving liquids onboard.
The NCAA had earlier announced the suspension of the two ValueJet pilots for initiating departure procedures without receiving the required pre-departure clearance. While the NCAA did not mention the musician directly, reports later revealed that Kwam 1’s disruptive behaviour contributed to the safety breach.
