- FAAN, NCAA Clash Over KWAM 1’s Airport Incident
- FAAN indicated that it would not be influenced by KWAM 1’s status
- NCAA suspended the two ValueJet pilots involved in the incident
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has stated that popular Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), breached aviation rules by attempting to bring an alcoholic beverage into a commercial flight and causing a disruption to the airline’s operations.
Eko Hot Blog reports that FAAN’s position on the incident, which occurred on Tuesday, appears to differ from that of another aviation authority, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which sanctioned the two pilots involved but did not address KWAM 1’s involvement.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Jim Iyke Blasts Modern Feminism, Calls It a ‘Crime’, ‘Marketing Gimmick’
- The Walking Dead’ Star Kelley Mack Dies at 33 After Battle With Rare Brain Cancer
- Ibom Air Records 82% On-Time Flights in July, Sets New Benchmark in Nigerian Aviation
This difference may stem from their respective constitutional roles. FAAN is responsible for managing airports across Nigeria, while NCAA acts as the country’s primary civil aviation regulator.
In a statement released on Wednesday, FAAN said its initial investigation confirmed that the passenger was set to board a ValueJet Airlines morning flight (Flight VK 201) to Lagos.
“During boarding, the passenger attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the Flight Captain.”
The aviation authority stated that the airline’s attempts to persuade KWAM 1 to discard the alcoholic drink before boarding the flight to Lagos were unsuccessful.
“As boarding continued, an airline security officer asked the passenger to step aside for further clarification. The passenger allegedly refused and spilled the contents of the flask on the officer, which turned out to be alcohol. The Flight Captain intervened but faced similar resistance,” FAAN said in the statement by its spokesperson, Obiageli Orah.
KWAM 1 is regarded as one of Nigeria’s most prominent musicians and is known to have a close personal relationship with President Bola Tinubu.
In a viral video on social media months ago, the musician shared an audio recording of a phone call in which President Tinubu expressed condolences over the death of his mother.
In its statement, FAAN indicated that it would not be influenced by KWAM 1’s status and is committed to conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.
“This matter remains under thorough investigation, and all parties found culpable will be held accountable according to the law,” FAAN said.
INCIDENT
According to multiple reports, KWAM 1 was seen sipping from a flask after boarding the aircraft, prompting a flight attendant to raise concerns that the contents might be alcoholic an item prohibited on domestic flights in Nigeria.
The flight attendant reportedly asked him to surrender the flask, but the 68-year-old musician refused, stating it contained medication prescribed by his doctor.
When he insisted on keeping the flask, the airline crew allegedly asked him to disembark.
After leaving the plane, KWAM 1 reportedly remained nearby, appearing to attempt to prevent the aircraft from departing.
A video shared by a blog on Wednesday showed the musician standing in front of the plane while being approached by airport officials.
Despite this, the pilot chose to proceed with takeoff, a decision that may have placed the musician and the officials at risk and could be the reason for the sanctions imposed by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
As the aircraft began to taxi, the musician and airport personnel moved out of its path.
The video drew widespread attention online, with many Nigerians demanding accountability and a thorough investigation.
In its official statement, FAAN reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the safety and security of all passengers, airline crew, and airport personnel.
The agency emphasized that any actions that compromise airport operations or violate aviation safety standards will not be tolerated, regardless of the status or identity of those involved.
FAAN also reiterated its commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and regulatory compliance across all airports in Nigeria.
NCAA REACTS
Earlier, PREMIUM TIMES reported that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had suspended two ValueJet pilots involved in the incident.
The NCAA stated that the actions of the pilots constituted a serious breach of established safety protocols at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
In a statement released by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the agency confirmed that it had acted promptly by suspending the licenses of the individuals involved.
The pilots were identified as Oluranti Ogoyi, the captain, and Ivan Oloba, the first officer.
According to the regulator, initial investigations revealed that the pilot began departure procedures from the assigned bay without obtaining the necessary pre-departure clearance.
Click here to watch the Video of K1 vs ValueJet
FURTHER READING
- NEMA Urges Immediate Evacuation as Floods Threaten Lives in Imo
- Under-16 Students Must Score 320 in JAMB for University Admission
