The Federal Government has announced the withdrawal of criminal charges against Ms. Comfort Emmanson and a reduction of Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal’s (KWAM 1) flight ban to one month, citing “compassionate grounds” after both parties showed remorse over recent airport incidents.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said on Wednesday that following consultations with stakeholders, Ibom Airline had agreed to drop its case against Emmanson, who will be released from Kirikiri Prison this week. The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) also accepted to lift her lifetime flight ban.
In KWAM 1’s case, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will cut his no-fly period to one month and withdraw criminal complaints. The Fuji star will also be engaged as an ambassador for airport security protocols.
Additionally, ValueJet pilots Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba will have their licenses restored after a one-month suspension and mandatory professional reappraisal.
Keyamo directed aviation and allied agencies to commence a security personnel retraining retreat next week to improve how airport staff handle disruptive passengers and de-escalate conflicts.
The minister stressed that while the clemency marks a fresh start, safety and security laws will be strictly enforced going forward.