What began as a routine Uyo–Lagos flight ended in chaos — and now, Ms. Comfort Emmanson is behind bars in Kirikiri Correctional Centre and barred from flying for life.
The drama started when the Ibom Air passenger allegedly refused to switch off her phone before takeoff. After a fellow traveller intervened, things spiralled:
✈️ Upon arrival in Lagos, she allegedly attacked the Purser, yanking her wig, smashing her glasses, slapping her repeatedly, and even assaulting another crew member.
⚠️ She reportedly tried to grab a fire extinguisher to use as a weapon — a move the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) called “one of the most severe cases of unruly passenger behaviour this year.”
👮♀️ Security was called, but witnesses say she kept lashing out at both Ibom Air and FAAN personnel until she was forcibly restrained.
Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo (SAN) confirmed she was arraigned at the Ikeja Magistrates Court for criminal offences and remanded for failing to provide sureties. But he blasted the leak of a viral video showing her indecent exposure during the struggle, ordering sanctions for whoever shared it.
Meanwhile, the AON slammed down its harshest penalty: a permanent ‘No Fly’ ban across all domestic and international flights operated by its members.
“This was not just disruptive — it was a violent attack that endangered lives and the aircraft itself,” said AON spokesperson Prof. Obiora Okonkwo.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) also issued a warning: disruptive passengers will face restraint, prosecution, and punishment under aviation law.
But the case has sparked debate. Former Anambra Governor Peter Obi condemned the violence but called out “double standards” — pointing to another recent high-profile incident where an influential offender allegedly endangered passengers but faced no prosecution.
“Justice in Nigeria must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence,” Obi said, also slamming the “dehumanising” public stripping of Ms. Emmanson.
With two major airport meltdowns in one week — including a recent spat involving Fuji legend KWAM 1 — airlines, unions, and regulators are now pushing for tougher security protocols to protect aviation workers and passengers alike.