The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has addressed the altercation that occurred on Tuesday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, involving veteran Fuji musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) and a ValueJet flight crew member.
In a statement released on Wednesday by Mrs. Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN confirmed that the incident took place during boarding for Flight VK 201, a morning ValueJet service from Abuja to Lagos.
According to Orah, preliminary investigations revealed that K1 attempted to board the flight with an unidentified liquid substance, in violation of international aviation security regulations. Despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the Flight Captain, the musician allegedly refused to declare or surrender the liquid, which was later identified as alcohol.
“Under international standards, including Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Security Programme and ICAO Annex 17, liquids above 100ml must be declared and medically justified,” Orah stated.
As boarding continued, an airline security officer requested that the passenger step aside for clarification.
The statement alleges that K1 refused to cooperate and poured the alcohol on the officer.
The Flight Captain reportedly intervened but was met with resistance from the musician. After boarding was completed, the captain ordered the aircraft door closed.
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However, the passenger allegedly advanced to the front of the aircraft and refused to vacate the area, defying multiple instructions.
FAAN confirmed that K1 was eventually escorted off the aircraft by AVSEC’s crime unit for further investigation and was later released.
“FAAN reiterates its firm commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel,” Orah said, adding that the authority “will not condone actions that compromise operations or violate aviation safety rules, regardless of the individual involved.”
She further noted that the matter remains under investigation and assured the public that all individuals found responsible will be held accountable in accordance with the law.
FAAN concluded by reaffirming its dedication to professionalism, safety, and full regulatory compliance across all airports in Nigeria.