By Ghazali Ibrahim
Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has issued a public apology following a recent controversy at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, which has led to his six months travel ban.
In a statement personally signed by the music icon on Friday, K1 described the incident as “unfortunate”.
He clarified that contrary to reports, the flask he was seen with did not contain alcohol but water necessary medically due to a chronic dehydration condition.
“The incident that occurred at the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was, to say the least, unfortunate,” K1 said.
“Unknown to many, I suffer from chronic dehydration, and my doctor strongly advised that I remain constantly hydrated. This is why I always carry a water flask with me. Contrary to the negative narrative being circulated in some quarters, the flask contained only water — not alcohol.”
He explained that the flask had been empty during two separate security checks and was only filled at the airport lounge before he headed to the tarmac.
K1 further debunked claims that he was deboarded, insisting he had not yet boarded the aircraft at the time of the encounter, a detail he said could be confirmed by CCTV footage.
Offering a sweeping apology, K1 extended his regrets to the Presidency, the Ministry of Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), his airline ValueJet, and the Nigerian public.
“It was never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols,” he said.
“My unwavering patriotism and loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria have never been in doubt. I would never do anything to tarnish the image I’ve built over the past five decades.”
K1, who has long been regarded as a cultural ambassador for Nigerian music, concluded by reaffirming his commitment to promoting the country’s heritage and thanking his fans for their continued support during what he described as a misunderstood episode.
