The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed that a key eyewitness has come forward to provide a first-hand account of the altercation between Comfort Emmanson, a female passenger, and an Ibom Air crew member. This incident, which occurred on the August 10 flight from Uyo to Lagos, sparked widespread debate and social media reactions.
Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, announced on X.com that the witness, who was seated beside Emmanson, has offered a verified account of the events that transpired before the flight’s departure. The witness also provided a boarding pass to authenticate their involvement.
Achimugu’s statement read, “The passenger seated right next to the lady in the viral videos has contacted me (also sent in his boarding pass) and given his account of the events that transpired on the aircraft before departure.”
He continued, “Some aspects of his testimony offer an opportunity to look at other perspectives of this case, especially the behaviour of other actors involved and the manner of passenger handling before the flight took off.”
The NCAA has issued a Letter of Investigation (LOI) to Ibom Air and plans to invite the airline and other witnesses to a meeting for further discussions. Achimugu expressed relief at the appearance of a genuine witness, stating that this would help clear up misinformation circulating online.
“Some claims on social media were misleading, and this verified account provides much-needed clarity. There is still much to unravel, and rest assured, every party involved will be held accountable,” he added.
In the wake of the investigation, the Federal Government has withdrawn its criminal complaint against Emmanson and has also reduced the flight ban imposed on renowned Fuji music star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, who had been involved in a separate incident with Ibom Air.
The NCAA remains committed to ensuring that the rights of all aviation stakeholders are protected.
“Mediation is an acceptable form of conflict resolution, and we will continue to uphold the standards of justice and fairness within the aviation industry,” said Achimugu.
