Keyamo condemns viral exposure, urges reform after Ibom Air assault
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has condemned the disturbing behavior of a passenger aboard Ibom Air Flight Q153, while highlighting a broader push for strengthened aviation safety and security protocols.
On Sunday, August 10, 2025, Comfort Emmanson (also known as Comfort Bob) allegedly assaulted several members of the Ibom Air flight and airport personnel after refusing to switch off her mobile phone as required before takeoff on the Uyo–Lagos flight—which departed at approximately 14:54.
According to Ibom Air, following an intervention by a fellow passenger who turned off her phone after a pilot intervention, Ms. Emmanson erupted into a violent outburst upon arrival in Lagos. She reportedly stepped on the purser, tore off her wig, removed and threw her glasses, used her footwear to assault her, slapped multiple crew members, and attempted to grab a fire extinguisher as a weapon. She also attacked airport security agents before finally being restrained and removed.
Minister Keyamo’s response was swift and unequivocal:
- He assured that the NCAA has imposed an indefinite local and international flight ban on Ms. Emmanson.
- She has been arraigned for criminal charges at the Ikeja Magistrates’ Court and remanded in Kirikiri Prisons after being unable to provide sureties.
- The release of footage showing indecent exposure during the scuffle was decried as “totally unacceptable” by the minister, who warned against the “debasing of womanhood,” and ordered sanctions against staff responsible for leaking the clip.
- Keyamo mandated enhanced public relations training for airline staff to better manage volatile situations and directed a joint security meeting next week among relevant agencies to improve coordination.
- He reminded passengers that proper grievance channels exist via the NCAA’s Consumer Protection Directorate, warning that bypassing legal avenues can lead to serious consequences.
Industry-wide backlash has followed:
- The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) announced a lifetime no-fly ban on Ms. Emmanson across all AON-affiliated airlines, citing the severity of her actions.
Key Takeaways for Lagos Readers
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Safety Violation | Refusal to comply with standard emissions protocol sparked violent scene. |
| Legal Consequences | Indefinite flight ban, criminal charges, and remand confirmed. |
| Ethical Concerns | Viral video with indecent exposure condemned as degrading and exploitative. |
| Policy Action | Strengthened staff training, inter-agency coordination, and enforcement of passenger accountability. |
What This Means for Us
This incident underscores the fragile intersection of passenger rights, aviation safety, and public conduct. Lagos, as Nigeria’s aviation hub, is reminded of the perils of non-compliance and the importance of procedural respect. Authorities and stakeholders are being pressed to uphold safety without compromising dignity.
Passengers are urged to stay calm, follow crew instructions, and utilize formal complaint mechanisms—even amid frustration. The message is clear: safety, professionalism, and respect must remain flight’s top priorities.
