The spokesperson of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, has appealed to passengers who were on the Ibom Air Uyo–Lagos flight (IAN513) during last week’s altercation between the airline crew and passenger Comfort Emmanson to come forward with their accounts.

In a post shared on X this morning, Achimugu stressed that hearing both sides is essential for justice and fairness.

Comfort Emmanson was accused of attacking an air hostess after being asked to switch off her phone before take-off. While some witnesses have confirmed the assault, others suggest the hostess’ approach may have provoked the reaction.

Achimugu’s post read in part:

“Any person who was a passenger on that Ibom Air Uyo–Lagos flight (IAN513) and witnessed the events that led to the fracas should urgently reach out to me via DM or email: michael.achimugu@ncaa.gov.ng. Once verified, we can discuss and understand other perspectives to this issue. This does not excuse unruly behaviour and its consequences, but ensures everyone culpable is held accountable.”

He added that NCAA officers in Lagos will conduct a fact-finding mission involving the police and security personnel who were part of the chain of events.

Achimugu emphasised the importance of learning from the incident to improve processes for all stakeholders — passengers, airline staff, and aviation security.

“It’s a test for the system. Regulations may be fine on paper, but human behaviour is unpredictable. Incidents like this expose gaps that must be addressed. At the end of it all, the message remains the same: In aviation, it is safety first, safety second, and safety third.”