By DAYO ADESULU
Date: 12 August 2025
In recent weeks, Nigeria’s aviation sector has been rocked by a troubling increase in incidents of unruly behavior at airports, prompting urgent calls for action from advocacy groups. High-profile incidents, including those involving former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and music legend King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM1), have drawn attention, but the latest case involving a young passenger, Ms. Comfort Emmanson, has intensified scrutiny over the enforcement of conduct regulations.
Project Alert, an organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights of women and girls, has condemned these incidents as detrimental to the safety and reputation of Nigeria’s aviation industry. They express concern over the apparent inconsistency in the responses to these incidents, highlighting a troubling disparity in how different cases have been handled.
In the case involving KWAM1, the matter was resolved with a public apology and no further punitive measures, despite the serious nature of the allegations. In stark contrast, Ms. Emmanson’s recent experience on an Ibom Air flight resulted in immediate punitive action against her, raising questions about fairness and equal treatment under the law.
“The principle must be simple: whether a celebrated figure or an unknown passenger, the rules should apply equally,” stated a representative from Project Alert. They emphasized that allowing some individuals to evade consequences while others face harsh penalties undermines public trust and sets a dangerous precedent.
In light of these incidents, Project Alert is calling on Minister for Aviation Festus Keyamo, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and other regulatory bodies to take decisive action. Their recommendations include:
1. Establishing clear, uniform protocols for addressing unruly behavior to ensure equal treatment for all individuals.
2. Implementing mandatory training for airport and airline staff in professional de-escalation, conflict management, and public engagement.
3. Enforcing existing laws rigorously to ensure that offenders face the full consequences of their actions without exceptions or double standards.
As Nigeria strives to maintain a safe and respected aviation environment, Project Alert insists that every incident must be handled with integrity and fairness, particularly in protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls. The organization stresses that all passengers should be free from bias, discrimination, and injustice, especially within the critical space of airports.
The call for consistency in enforcement comes at a crucial time as Nigeria aims to restore confidence in its aviation sector and uphold the integrity of its operations.
