By Ademuyiwa Balikis
A recent incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport involving renowned Fuji musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM1, has led to the suspension of two ValueJet pilots by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for breaching safety protocols.
According to reports, the altercation began when K1 attempted to board a Lagos-bound ValueJet flight with a flask containing an unidentified liquid, later confirmed to be alcohol.
Despite repeated warnings from airline staff and aviation security personnel, he insisted on carrying the flask onboard, claiming it contained medication prescribed by his doctor.
Following his refusal to comply, K1 was deboarded from the flight.
In a dramatic turn of events, he proceeded to the front of the aircraft, attempting to prevent its departure.
A video circulating online captures the moment K1 and ground personnel narrowly avoided being struck by the aircraft’s wing as it began taxiing without proper clearance.
In response, the NCAA suspended the licenses of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, citing a “serious breach of aviation safety protocols.”
The authority emphasized that the pilots commenced departure procedures without adhering to mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols, endangering the safety of ground personnel and other airport users.
ValueJet has acknowledged the incident, stating that the crew involved has been removed from active duty pending the outcome of a thorough internal review and investigation.
The airline affirmed its commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) also addressed the incident, confirming that K1 attempted to board with alcohol, violating aviation security regulations.
FAAN stated that the musician’s actions contributed to the safety breach and that appropriate measures would be taken to prevent future occurrences.
As investigations continue, the NCAA is reportedly considering additional sanctions against K1, including the possibility of placing him on a ‘no-fly list,’ which could impact his ability to travel for performances and other engagements.
