Amanze ChinonyeIbom Air has imposed a lifetime ban on Comfort Emmanson after she violently assaulted crew members and security staff during and after a Uyo–Lagos flight on Sunday.
The incident underscores growing concerns over passenger misconduct in Nigeria’s aviation sector, which experts say threatens crew safety and could compromise flight security. Industry observers warn that such cases may push regulators toward stricter enforcement of civil aviation laws.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn a detailed statement on Monday, the airline said Ms. Emmanson’s behaviour “posed a serious threat to the safety of our crew, passengers, and aircraft” and would not be tolerated under its zero-tolerance policy for unruly conduct.
According to Ibom Air, the incident began shortly before take-off from Uyo when Ms. Emmanson refused repeated instructions to switch off her mobile phone. She only complied after the Pilot-in-Command made an announcement and a fellow passenger switched it off, prompting what the airline described as “a verbal tirade.”
Upon arrival in Lagos, the airline said Ms. Emmanson waited for other passengers to disembark before confronting the Purser who had earlier instructed her. “She stepped on her, forcibly tore off her wig, removed her glasses and threw them to the floor, and assaulted her with her footwear,” the statement read. When another crew member intervened, she was also slapped.
The airline further alleged that Ms. Emmanson attempted to remove a fire extinguisher to use as a weapon, an act that could have damaged the aircraft. Even after security arrived, she allegedly attacked both Ibom Air and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) personnel, and slapped the ground supervisor after disembarking.
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She was taken into custody by FAAN security and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation. Ibom Air said a formal report had been sent to the Nigerian civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and confirmed that Ms. Emmanson “will no longer be permitted to fly on any of our aircraft.”
Reiterating its stance, the airline said: “Such behaviour will be met with the strongest possible response, including legal action and permanent restriction from our services. We commend the bravery and professionalism of our crew under extremely challenging circumstances, as well as the swift support from airport security and the Nigeria Police.”
The incident comes less than a week after the NCAA banned Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, for six months over alleged unruly behaviour at Abuja airport.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
