By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has launched an investigation into the incident involving a passenger on Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos on August 10, 2025.
According to a press statement released by the airline, the incident involved Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who refused to switch off her mobile phone before take-off, despite being instructed to do so by the crew. When a fellow passenger took the phone and switched it off, Ms. Emmanson became verbally aggressive, prompting the crew to intervene.
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The incident has sparked widespread concern and raised questions about passenger safety and security on flights.
Ibom Air has confirmed that an incident occurred on board one of its flights from Uyo to Lagos on August 10, 2025, involving a passenger who posed a serious threat to the safety of the crew, passengers, and aircraft.
The situation escalated upon arrival in Lagos, when Ms. Emmanson confronted the Purser, who had earlier instructed her to switch off her phone. In a shocking display of violence, Ms. Emmanson stepped on the Purser, forcibly tore off her wig, removed her glasses, and threw them to the floor. She then used her footwear to assault the Purser, slapping her several times.
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When another cabin crew member tried to intervene, Ms. Emmanson slapped her too. She then attempted to forcibly remove a fire extinguisher to use as a weapon, an act that could have damaged and grounded the aircraft.
The Pilot-in-Command had alerted airport security, and Ibom Air Security personnel arrived to restrain and remove Ms. Emmanson from the aircraft.
However, she continued to assault the security personnel, even after disembarking from the plane.
Ms. Emmanson was eventually taken into custody by FAAN security and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.
Ibom Air has since submitted a report on the incident to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and placed a travel restriction on Ms. Emmanson, who will no longer be permitted to fly on any of its aircraft.
The airline has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards any form of unruly or violent conduct that threatens the safety of passengers, crew, or equipment.
Ibom Air has commended the bravery and professionalism of its crew in handling the situation, as well as the swift support from airport security and the Nigerian Police.
The incident has highlighted the importance of passenger safety and compliance with crew instructions. Ibom Air has urged all passengers to comply with crew instructions at all times for the safety, security, and comfort of everyone on board.
