The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has placed a lifetime “no-fly” ban on a passenger named Comfort Emmanson after she allegedly assaulted flight crew and airport security personnel on a Uyo-Lagos flight on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
“She is hereby banned from flying with any AON member either domestically or internationally for life. Such incidents have become one too many with the most recent being the incident involving Nigerian musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) on VajueJet and the unruly behaviour of Senator Adams Oshiomhole towards the members of staff of Air Peace,” the statement read in part.
AON’s spokesperson, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, condemned the violence and endorsed Ibom Air’s handling of the situation, and labeled it one of the most severe cases of its kind this year.
The body also urged the Federal Airport Authority to increase airport security and warned that similar consequences will befall any future unruly passengers.
According to a press statement released by the airline, the incident began before takeoff from Uyo when Ms. Emmanson repeatedly refused to turn off her mobile phone as required by aviation safety regulations.
After a fellow passenger switched off the phone, she launched a verbal tirade. The situation was temporarily de-escalated, and the flight proceeded to Lagos as scheduled.
The situation escalated dramatically upon arrival. After other passengers had disembarked, Ms. Emmanson reportedly waited to confront the flight’s purser.
She is accused of stepping on the purser, forcibly removing her wig and glasses, and physically assaulting her with her footwear and several slaps. When another cabin crew member intervened, they were also slapped.
The airline’s statement detailed that Ms. Emmanson then attempted to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon, an act that could have severely damaged the aircraft.
The pilot, who had been alerted to the situation, called for airport security.Upon their arrival, the passenger continued her violent behavior, lashing out at both Ibom Air and FAAN security staff.She was eventually restrained and taken into custody by FAAN security, who later handed her over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.
The airline reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for any form of unruly or violent conduct, stating that such behavior will result in legal action and permanent travel restrictions.
Ibom Air commended its crew for their professionalism and bravery in a challenging situation and urged all passengers to comply with crew instructions for the safety of everyone on board.
