No one above the law, FAAN warns after K1 De Airport drama

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has explained the events surrounding a recent incident involving Fuji music icon, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as K1 De Ultimate, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

The altercation, which occurred on Monday, August 5, disrupted boarding procedures for a ValueJet Lagos-bound flight (VK 201) and has since attracted public scrutiny, prompting investigations by aviation authorities.

According to a statement released by Mrs. Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, the issue began when the musician attempted to board the flight with an unidentified liquid, which was later confirmed to be alcohol.

“The passenger tried to board with alcohol. He was warned repeatedly, in line with international aviation security regulations, but declined to comply,” Orah said.

FAAN emphasized that the action violated the National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and international safety standards under ICAO Annex 17, which prohibits liquids exceeding 100ml from being carried through airport security checkpoints, except for declared medical necessities.

Despite repeated warnings, the passenger reportedly resisted compliance. He was asked to step aside for further clarification but refused and proceeded to spill the alcohol on a security officer. Even the flight captain’s intervention was met with resistance.

Eventually, the aircraft doors were shut, but the passenger allegedly moved toward the front of the plane and refused to leave the area until Aviation Security (AVSEC) officials intervened and escorted him away. He was released following a preliminary investigation.

In a related development, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has also launched a review of the incident. Earlier, the authority suspended the pilot and co-pilot of the aircraft for failing to comply with pre-departure safety protocols, describing it as a serious violation.

FAAN reiterated its commitment to ensuring passenger safety and strict adherence to aviation regulations, stating that no individual, regardless of their public status, would be allowed to undermine established safety protocols.

Investigations into the matter are still ongoing, with FAAN assuring that appropriate actions will be taken against anyone found responsible.