An Ibom Air passenger, Comfort Emmanson, has been remanded in the Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison, Lagos, following a violent altercation with crew members on board a Uyo–Lagos flight on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
The incident reportedly began when Emmanson refused to switch off her mobile phone before takeoff, despite repeated instructions from the cabin crew. Upon arrival in Lagos, the disagreement escalated into physical assault. She allegedly attacked the flight purser by stepping on her, tearing off her wig and glasses, throwing the glasses away, and striking her with footwear. She was also accused of slapping another crew member who attempted to intervene.
According to court documents, Emmanson further attempted to wield a fire extinguisher as a weapon, attacked personnel of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and airline security, and damaged airline property, including an aircraft curtain valued at $2,500 and a wig worth about ₦110,000.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has placed her on a lifetime no-fly list, barring her from flying with any member airline domestically or internationally.
Emmanson was arraigned before a magistrate court in Ogba, Lagos, on multiple charges including disorderly conduct, assault, destruction of property, and violation of aviation regulations. The court ordered her remand in Kirikiri until October 6, 2025, when the trial will continue.
Reacting to the development, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, condemned the release of indecent video footage of the incident, ordering that any staff responsible be identified and sanctioned. FAAN also expressed deep concern over the rise in unruly passenger incidents, warning that such acts will attract severe penalties.
The case has sparked public debate on Nigeria’s justice system. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi criticised what he described as selective justice, noting that ordinary citizens like Emmanson often face harsher treatment than politically connected offenders.
Peter Obi in his statement wants popular Fuji Musician, Wasiu Ayinde KWAM1 prosecuted for similar offense in recent times to strengthen the tenet of justice centered on equity and fairness.