The announcement came after public criticism over the FG’s handling of two recent incidents of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports — one involving KWAM 1 and another involving Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger who assaulted a flight attendant.
Keyamo said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s flight ban to one month, with the musician volunteering to promote awareness on acceptable conduct in the aviation sector. He noted that the decision was influenced by appeals from respected individuals and KWAM 1’s public display of remorse over the August 5 incident, in which he allegedly obstructed a ValueJet aircraft’s movement.
Public Backlash and Clarification
Many Nigerians on social media accused the FG of applying double standards. Responding on his official X handle on Wednesday, Keyamo wrote:
“It is common practice worldwide that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which he has repented. It is akin to community service — unpaid and voluntary. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some assume that the word ‘Ambassador’ means a big position with perks. It is not.”
He added that similar roles have been given to repentant individuals by previous Nigerian governments.
Comfort Emmanson May Get Similar Role
Keyamo also revealed that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) are considering appointing Comfort Emmanson as an ambassador for good passenger conduct, following her expression of remorse.
“It is left for the AON to work out those details since she was released from prison custody today based on my earlier statement,” he said.
The minister stressed that his ministry has been fair to all parties involved in both incidents.
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