In a move aimed at restoring peace and order within Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced a decision to withdraw a criminal complaint against Ms. Comfort Emmanson and reduce penalties for musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, also known as Kwam 1.
The decision follows a series of high-profile altercations at Nigerian airports that have dominated public discussion.
The minister, in a recent statement, explained that his office had spent the last 48 hours consulting with aviation stakeholders to address the root causes of the recent unruly behavior.
He acknowledged that valuable lessons had been learned and that the incidents have highlighted the importance of proper conduct within the aviation space.
Keyamo emphasized that a review of the events revealed culpability on all sides both from the passengers and the airline staff involved.
The minister stated, noting that the decision to show leniency was made after reviewing the incidents, considering appeals from well-meaning individuals, and observing the remorse shown by those involved.
In the case of Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who was arrested following an altercation on an Ibom Air flight, the minister confirmed that Ibom Air would withdraw its criminal complaint explaining that Ms. Emmanson had shown great remorse during her police statement while steps are taken to facilitate her release from Kirikiri prison.
Keyamo also appealed to the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to lift the lifetime flying ban imposed on her, a request to which they have agreed.
In the case involving Kwam 1 and ValueJet, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will reduce his flight ban to a one-month period.
Keyamo also revealed that the NCAA would withdraw its criminal complaints against the musician noting that Kwam 1 would now work with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) as potential ambassador for promoting proper airport security protocol.
The pilots involved in the incident, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba, will also have their licenses restored after a one-month suspension and mandatory professional reappraisal.
PR/AYO
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