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By Oscar Okhifo
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has raised serious concerns over aviation safety following a disruptive incident involving Fuji music icon, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as Kwam 1, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Kwam 1 on Tuesday reportedly attempted to board Value Jet Flight VK 201 from Abuja to Lagos while carrying a flask filled with alcohol, an act that contravenes aviation regulations on carrying liquids exceeding 100ml without proper declaration.
According to FAAN, the musician defied instructions from both airport security personnel and the aircraft’s captain to surrender the item. In the ensuing confrontation, he allegedly spilled the liquid on a security officer and refused to comply with safety protocols.
The situation escalated when, after boarding was complete and the aircraft doors were closed, Kwam 1 allegedly positioned himself near the nose of the aircraft, seemingly to prevent it from departing. He was eventually escorted out by security officials, but not before the incident had caused significant disruption.
A viral video capturing part of the drama showed Kwam 1 and other ground personnel dangerously close to the aircraft as it began taxiing, a situation aviation authorities described as a major breach of safety protocols.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, FAAN condemned the act as a violation of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP), which aligns with global aviation standards.
The agency reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on actions that compromise safety, regardless of the social or political status of those involved.
“The Authority is conducting a full investigation into the incident. Anyone found culpable, whether passenger or staff, will face appropriate disciplinary measures,” FAAN said.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the pilot and co-pilot of the ValueJet flight for initiating takeoff procedures without first obtaining air traffic control clearance, even as the disruption was ongoing on the tarmac.
The incident has sparked public debate, with many Nigerians questioning whether Kwam 1, known to have close ties to top political figures and the ruling party , will the face consequences of his rascally behavior or enjoy preferential treatmen