Samuel Omang
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has condemned the public release of an indecent video clip involving Ibom Air passenger Comfort Emmanson, describing the act as “totally unacceptable” and a violation of decency.
Keyamo said while filming unruly passengers can be a legitimate tool for evidence gathering, leaking footage containing indecent exposure crosses the line. He ordered that any staff member found responsible for releasing the clip be identified and sanctioned accordingly.
In a statement, the minister disclosed that Emmanson — who was involved in a scuffle with ground personnel — has been placed under an indefinite flight ban on both local and international routes by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). She was arraigned at the Ikeja Magistrates’ Court on criminal charges and remanded at Kirikiri prison after failing to meet bail conditions.
“We will not tolerate the debasing of womanhood,” Keyamo stressed. “Whilst we support documenting misconduct for prosecution, releasing footage to ridicule a passenger is deplorable.”
He also directed airlines to prioritise regular training in public relations and conflict management to defuse tense situations before they escalate. In addition, a joint security meeting involving relevant agencies will be held next week to strengthen coordination in handling disruptive incidents.
Keyamo reminded travellers that the NCAA’s Consumer Protection Directorate offers clear channels for lodging complaints. “There is no reason for passengers to take the law into their own hands in ways that could lead to serious consequences,” he warned.
The minister’s comments come in the wake of growing concerns over the handling of in-flight and airport incidents, with the Ibom Air case sparking nationwide debate on passenger behaviour, staff conduct, and privacy rights.