FG withdraws criminal complaint against Kwam 1, Comfort, announces aviation security reforms

Abdullateef Fowewe

In a major development following recent unruly behaviours at Nigerian airports, the federal government has announced the withdrawal of the criminal complaint against Comfort Emmanson, a passenger on an Ibom Airline flight, and outlined new measures to address related aviation matters.

This decision was made after consultations with key stakeholders in the aviation sector and consideration of the incidents that occurred.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a statement on Wednesday, emphasised that while regrettable, these incidents have provided valuable lessons on airport security protocols.

“If nothing at all, the episodes have undoubtedly helped to raise public awareness about appropriate conduct within the aviation space,” he noted.

Addressing the case of Emmanson, who was involved in an incident on August 10, 2025, Keyamo confirmed, “When the Police took her statement in presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct.”

Following this, Ibom Airline agreed to withdraw the complaint, and the Police Prosecutor and Airport Command are facilitating her release from Kirikiri Prisons within the week.

Additionally, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have agreed to lift the lifetime flying ban previously imposed on her.

In another related case involving music star, Wasiu Ayinde Marshall well known as Kwam 1 and ValueJet Airlines, the government has decided to reduce Kwam 1’s flight ban to one month, with plans to engage him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocols.

NCAA will also withdraw its criminal complaints against him.

Further, licenses for Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba of ValueJet will be restored after a one-month ban and professional re-appraisal.

However, Keyamo also announced immediate plans for a collaborative retreat involving aviation agencies and government bodies to retrain aviation security personnel on handling errant and disruptive passengers and de-escalation techniques.

Airlines will also conduct sessions focusing on staff conduct towards travelers.

Keyamo underscored that these decisions were taken on “COMPASSIONATE grounds,” stressing the government’s commitment to law and safety.

“We are also sending a CLEAR MESSAGE that we take safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously and we have decided to draw a line after these clemencies.”