The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has pledged an impartial review of the altercation between an Ibom Air passenger and the airline’s crew but cautioned that unruly behaviour in aviation will be handled strictly within the law.
“No matter the provocation, rest assured that you can always file your complaints with the NCAA, and it will be dealt with. Self-help is not permissible in aviation anywhere,” said Mike Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, on Channels Television’s Morning Brief
“On our part, we will ensure to see the end of it and that there is fairness on every side,” he added.
The comments came a day after videos circulated online showing Comfort Emmanson physically assaulting a crew member on a Uyoĺll–Lagos flight, prompting security intervention.
Ibom Air said the trouble started when Emmanson refused to switch off her mobile phone before take-off in Uyo. The airline alleged that after a fellow passenger switched it off, she launched into a verbal outburst. Upon arrival in Lagos, she allegedly attacked the purser—stepping on her, pulling off her wig, smashing her glasses, and striking her with footwear.
The airline imposed a lifetime no-fly ban on her, and she was subsequently charged to court. Achimugu noted that this legal process “is not a crime” and that both parties could choose to resolve the matter amicably.
He stressed that passengers must comply with cabin crew instructions to avoid “far-reaching consequences” of unruly behaviour.
Monday’s incident follows the NCAA’s recent six-month ban on Fuji singer Wasiu Ayinde, also known as K1 De Ultimate, over disruptive conduct at Abuja airport.
