Ruth Semilore
Ibom Air has imposed a lifetime ban on a passenger, Comfort Emmanson, following a violent incident aboard its Uyo–Lagos flight on Sunday, August 10, 2025, which endangered crew members, passengers, and the aircraft.
In a statement signed by the airline’s management, the altercation began shortly before take-off when Emmanson refused repeated instructions to switch off her mobile phone, in line with standard aviation safety procedures.
It took a public announcement from the Pilot-in-Command and the intervention of a fellow passenger to turn off the device. This action reportedly triggered a verbal outburst from Emmanson, though the situation was initially calmed, and the flight departed on schedule.
The airline disclosed that upon arrival in Lagos, Emmanson waited until all passengers had disembarked before launching a physical assault on the Purser, who had instructed her earlier.
She allegedly stepped on the crew member, tore off her wig, removed her glasses and threw them to the floor, and struck her with her footwear. She also slapped the Purser multiple times and assaulted another cabin crew member who tried to intervene.
According to Ibom Air, Emmanson then attempted to forcibly remove a fire extinguisher from the aircraft, an act that could have caused serious damage and grounded the plane.
The Pilot-in-Command alerted airport security, but before their arrival, the Purser, seen in a viral video, blocked the passenger from leaving the aircraft. Even after the arrival of Ibom Air security personnel, the passenger allegedly continued her attacks, lashing out at security staff and slapping the ground supervisor.
She was eventually restrained, removed from the aircraft by force, and handed over to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) security before being transferred to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.
The airline confirmed it has submitted a detailed incident report to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and has permanently barred Emmanson from boarding any of its flights.
The airline commended the bravery and professionalism of its crew under “extremely challenging circumstances” and acknowledged the swift intervention of airport security and the police. It also urged all passengers to adhere strictly to crew instructions at all times to ensure the safety, security, and comfort of everyone onboard.
“Ibom Air reiterates its zero-tolerance policy towards any form of unruly or violent conduct that threatens the safety of passengers, crew, or equipment. Such behaviour will be met with the strongest possible response, including legal action and permanent restriction from our services.
“We commend the bravery and professionalism of our crew in handling this situation under extremely challenging circumstances, as well as the swift support from airport security and the Nigerian Police.
“Safety remains our highest priority. We urge all passengers to comply with crew instructions at all times for the safety, security, and comfort of everyone on board,” the statement read.
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