Aviation Minister condemns release of indecent video of banned Ibom Air passenger

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticised the public release of an indecent video showing Ibom Air passenger Comfort Emmanson, who allegedly assaulted a crew member on Sunday.

Keyamo stated that while recording Emmanson’s unruly conduct as evidence for prosecution was acceptable, sharing footage containing indecent exposure to ridicule her was “deplorable and unacceptable.” He ordered that the staff responsible for releasing the sensitive clip be identified and sanctioned, stressing that “we will not fold our arms and tolerate the debasing of womanhood.”

The minister also directed airlines to continue training their staff in public relations and crisis management to defuse potentially volatile situations before they escalate. He announced plans for a joint security meeting of relevant agencies next week to improve coordination in similar incidents.

Keyamo further urged aggrieved passengers to use established complaint channels, noting that the Consumer Protection Directorate of the NCAA has publicised remedies for grievances. He warned that unruly passengers face lengthy flight bans and possible law enforcement action.

Meanwhile, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has imposed a lifetime no-fly ban on Emmanson, effective immediately, prohibiting her from flying on any AON member airline, domestically or internationally.

Ibom Air said the trouble began before take-off from Uyo, when Emmanson refused to switch off her phone until a fellow passenger intervened.

The airline alleged that upon landing in Lagos, she confronted the Purser, stepped on her, tore off her wig and glasses, and assaulted her with her footwear. Viral videos of the incident showed security officials attempting to restrain her.