FG orders withdrawal of criminal charges against Comfort Emmanson, cuts KWAM 1’s ban to one month

The Federal Government has directed the withdrawal of criminal complaints against Comfort Emmanson and Fuji star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), while reducing the flight bans imposed on both cases.

Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, made this knownbon his official X page on Wednesday.

“In the last 48 hours, I have been in consultation with critical stakeholders in the aviation sector and those involved in the unfortunate incidents regarding the unruly behaviours of certain individuals at our airports,” Keyamo said.

“Though regrettable, we think valuable lessons have been learnt by all sides. The episodes have undoubtedly helped to raise public awareness about appropriate conduct within the aviation space.”

Keyamo said Ibom Air had agreed to drop its complaint against Emmanson, who was arrested over an August 10 incident.

“When the police took her statement in presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct,” he explained.

Following the withdrawal, the Airport Command and police prosecutor will facilitate her release from Kirikiri Prison this week.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has also agreed to lift the lifetime flying ban imposed on her, with details to be announced later.

On the ValueJet incident involving KWAM 1, Keyamo said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will cut the ban to one month and drop its criminal complaint.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will also work with the musician “as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward.”

ValueJet’s Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba will serve the same one-month suspension before having their licences restored after mandatory reappraisal.

Keyamo directed aviation and allied agencies to hold a retreat next week to retrain security personnel on handling disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations.

Airlines will also have a dedicated session on staff conduct towards travellers.

“These above decisions were taken purely on compassionate grounds,” the minister stressed. “Government will never pander to base sentiments when clear encroachment of our laws are involved. We have decided to draw a line after these clemencies.”