Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly criticised the lifetime flight ban imposed by Ibom Air and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) on passenger Comfort Emmanson, questioning both the fairness and due process behind the decision.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Obi likened Nigeria’s justice system to a “spider’s web” one that ensnares the weak while allowing the powerful to evade consequences.
He described Emmanson’s sanction as a “tragic irony,” noting that while a young woman has been barred from flying for life, “those in positions of authority commit far greater offences that harm the nation and yet move freely in comfort, shielded from consequences.”
The controversy stems from an incident on August 10, 2025, captured in viral videos showing Emmanson, believed to be in her twenties, angrily confronting an Ibom Air flight attendant and airport security.
The airline alleged she had refused to switch off her mobile phone before takeoff and later assaulted a crew member upon landing in Lagos.
Ibom Air described the confrontation as one of the “most severe cases of unruly behaviour” in 2025. The AON placed her on a lifetime no-fly list, and she was remanded to Kirikiri Correctional Centre until October 6.
On Monday, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mike Achimugu, stated that while the airline had the right to pursue prosecution, both parties could still settle the matter amicably, potentially leading to a withdrawal of the case.
Obi, however, questioned whether all avenues for justice and compassionate resolution had been exhausted, stressing that “power must never determine who is punished.”
He reiterated the importance of balancing discipline with fairness, compassion, and rehabilitation.
The incident comes just days after a separate altercation at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport involving popular Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, who was also placed on a no-fly list pending investigation.
The NCAA has petitioned the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police to probe that case as well.
