Ibom Air Bans Violent Passenger for Life as Court Remands Her in Kirikiri Amid Double Standards Storm
By IDNN Aviation & Transport Desk
Ibom Air unruly passenger ban has dominated Nigeria’s aviation headlines after the airline permanently blacklisted passenger Comfort Emmanson for violent in-flight and on-ground behaviour that escalated into a full-blown confrontation at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed Airport. The August 10 incident has triggered legal action, industry sanctions, and a heated national debate over justice and double standards.
The drama began on the Uyo–Lagos flight when Comfort Emmanson allegedly refused to switch off her mobile phone despite repeated safety instructions from crew members. A fellow passenger eventually powered it down, provoking a verbal outburst. The flight departed on schedule, but the situation turned explosive upon landing in Lagos.
According to Ibom Air, Comfort waited until all passengers disembarked before confronting the purser, allegedly stepping on her, tearing off her wig, and striking her with footwear. Another crew member who intervened was also assaulted. The passenger then attempted to seize a fire extinguisher — a move the airline said could have damaged and grounded the aircraft.
Security Response and Lifetime Ban
Security personnel were called, but the violence reportedly continued as Bob attacked ground staff and the ramp supervisor. She was restrained and handed over to police. Ibom Air confirmed a permanent Ibom Air unruly passenger ban on Bob, and the Airline Operators of Nigeria placed her on an industry-wide no-fly list.
On Monday, Bob appeared before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court on five counts, including assault and malicious damage. She was remanded in Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison until October 6.
Public Outcry Over Double Standards
The case reignited comparisons with Fuji star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate), accused of blocking a ValueJet flight’s departure days earlier. Unlike Bob, K1 was not immediately detained.
Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, condemned Bob’s conduct but called her public stripping and swift remand “dehumanising”.
“Justice must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence,” Obi posted on X.
Human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi mocked the disparity: “Kwam 1 dey house, Kwam 2 dey Kirikiri.”
Ministerial Warning
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo endorsed the lifetime ban but ordered sanctions against staff who leaked “indecent exposure” footage.
“We will not tolerate debasing womanhood,” he said.
The incident has prompted renewed calls for stronger crew protection measures, balanced enforcement, and consistent application of aviation regulations.
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