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By Oscar Okhifo
Fuji music star, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as Kwam 1, has defended himself against allegations of trying to board a flight with alcoholic beverages.
It was reported that, when flagged by officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), he refused to cooperate with them.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on August 5 aboard a ValueJet aircraft, involved Kwam 1 allegedly drinking from a flask suspected to contain alcohol. He was approached by a flight attendant who, citing airline protocol, requested he surrender the flask.
However, the music legend allegedly refused, explaining that the content of the flask was “medication prescribed by his doctor.”
In a viral video, Kwam 1 was seen arguing with ground personnel at the airport over the content of the flask.
Following the incident, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), on August 6, announced the suspension of two pilots, stating that they had commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without securing the mandatory pre-departure clearance.
Meanwhile, in a statement issued by his media aide, Kunle Rasheed, the Fuji star refuted the allegations and criticised the narrative being circulated in the media space.
“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) displayed unruly conduct while attempting to board a ValueJet flight… We wish to categorically state that this narrative is not only exaggerated but also misleading,” the statement read.
Kwam 1 clarified that the substance in question, which drew the attention of airport security, was merely drinking water.
“Despite his respectful effort to clarify this, the situation was unnecessarily escalated.
“If indeed there had been anything inappropriate in his conduct, the Head of Airport Security, officials from relevant agencies such as FAAN and NCAA, as well as the Chairman and Managing Director of the airline, would not have reached out personally to appeal, tender apologies, and even go as far as arranging a private jet to fly him to Lagos at no cost.
“Despite persistent persuasion from the airline’s top executives, K1 graciously declined the offer,” it added
Kwam 1 also stated that he and his assistant were the only people directly involved in the incident.
“No one else but him and his assistant were directly involved. A few concerned passengers who witnessed the incident firsthand appealed to him to remain calm, recognising the undue pressure he was under, ” he said.
Addressing the pilot’s suspension, he said:
“It is important to note that the pilot involved now has her license suspended. Given the circumstances, it is no surprise if she attempts to deflect blame , surely, she must lie to cover herself up.”
Kwam 1 concluded by urging the media and public to avoid sensationalism.
“We urge the media and the public to avoid sensationalism and allow the truth , not assumptions to guide their judgment,” the statement concluded.
The relevant agencies haven’t responded as at when this report was being filed.