In a dramatic twist to a case that has drawn nationwide attention, the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has intervened in the ongoing dispute between Ibom Air and passenger Comfort Emmanson, who was accused of unruly conduct during a recent flight.
✈️ In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Minister directed Ibom Air to withdraw its legal case against Emmanson, citing the need for a peaceful resolution and the avoidance of further public controversy. He also instructed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take immediate steps to ensure her release from Kirikiri Correctional Centre, where she has been held in remand pending trial.
The incident, which occurred last month on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos, sparked intense debate after videos circulated online showing Emmanson in a heated confrontation with airline staff and fellow passengers. The altercation reportedly disrupted the flight’s operations and led to her arrest upon arrival in Lagos.
Ibom Air had filed charges of disruptive behavior, public nuisance, and endangering flight safety, leading to a magistrate court ordering her remand in Kirikiri. The case quickly became a hot topic on social media, with Nigerians divided — some demanding accountability for airline safety, others calling for leniency and questioning the proportionality of the punishment.
According to the Ministry of Aviation, the decision to step in was made after reviewing the facts, public sentiment, and the potential impact on Nigeria’s aviation image. Keyamo stressed that while maintaining order and safety on flights remains paramount, the government also has a duty to balance justice with compassion.
“We cannot condone actions that endanger lives or disrupt airline operations, but we must also ensure that punishments are fair and not unduly harsh. After discussions with relevant stakeholders, I have directed Ibom Air to withdraw the case and advised the IGP to facilitate the immediate release of Ms. Comfort Emmanson from custody,” the Minister stated.
He further called on airline operators, passengers, and law enforcement agencies to adopt conflict resolution measures that prioritize dialogue over confrontation, especially in high-tension situations.
The announcement has already triggered fresh reactions online, with many Nigerians applauding the decision as a show of mercy, while others worry it might set a precedent that emboldens unruly passengers.
As of press time, Ibom Air has not yet issued an official statement on whether it will comply with the withdrawal directive, though sources suggest negotiations are already underway. The Ministry has indicated that Emmanson’s release could happen within days once the necessary legal formalities are completed.
This latest development adds yet another chapter to a saga that has highlighted the challenges of balancing passenger rights, airline safety, and public perception in Nigeria’s growing aviation industry.