Raphael Kanu
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has criticised the arraignment of Comfort Emmanson, the female passenger accused of unruly conduct aboard an Ibom Air flight, describing the incident as a glaring example of Nigeria’s justice system operating with double standards.
In a post on X on Monday, Obi apologised to the Ibom Air crew allegedly assaulted by Emmanson, emphasising the need for society to uphold civility and good conduct. However, he strongly condemned the “dehumanising” treatment of the passenger by officials, particularly her public stripping, which he described as “unnecessary” and “the height of rascality and abuse by our agencies.”
Obi questioned the “hurried” arraignment and remand of Emmanson, contrasting it with the case of another high-profile individual accused of delaying a flight and endangering lives, who remains free — with some officials calling for him to be pardoned.
“This case is not just about one young woman,” Obi said. “It is about the double standards that poison our justice system. Justice must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence or access to government officials.”
The former Anambra governor argued that Emmanson’s offence pales compared to the crimes committed by politically connected individuals who loot public funds without facing similar humiliation. He called for an end to the selective application of justice, urging the minister of aviation and other relevant authorities to explain the apparent disparity in treatment.
Videos circulating on X show Emmanson confronting a flight attendant and resisting airport security. Ibom Air has since imposed a travel ban on her, stating it would no longer carry her on any of its flights. The Ministry of Aviation confirmed that she has been charged in court and remanded in Kirikiri Correctional Facility until October 6.
The incident comes just days after a confrontation at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport involving popular Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde (Kwam 1), who has been placed on a no-fly list pending investigation. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has petitioned the attorney-general and inspector-general of police to take up the matter.
Obi’s remarks have reignited public debate on the impartiality of Nigeria’s justice system, particularly in its treatment of the poor versus the well-connected.