The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has explained its decision to impose a six-month flying ban on renowned Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as Kwam 1, citing serious safety violations and unruly conduct at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

According to Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the decision follows an altercation between the artist, airport officials, and the crew of ValueJet flight VK201 on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

“What I must assure the general public is that everyone involved in this will be held accountable,” Achimugu stated.
“As we speak, the passenger has been blacklisted for six months from flying within Nigeria. Aviation rules apply to everyone—they exist to ensure the safety of all.”

Achimugu also confirmed that the NCAA is formally petitioning the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police to initiate legal action against Kwam 1.

Minister Responds: A Serious Breach of Safety

In a related statement, Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, expressed deep concern over the incident. He stated that both the musician and the flight crew had violated international aviation safety protocols.

“From all the details received so far, my preliminary assessment is that this was a case of temporary loss of control on both sides—one that could have resulted in serious consequences,” he noted.

Keyamo criticized Kwam 1 for allegedly physically obstructing the aircraft on the tarmac, effectively delaying its movement.

“Contrary to claims by Kwam 1’s representatives, he repeatedly changed position on the tarmac to block the aircraft from taxiing toward the runway. This kind of behavior is unacceptable—it’s comparable to a hostage scenario,” the Minister said.

He also faulted the pilot for initiating taxiing procedures while the passenger remained on the tarmac.

“No level of provocation justifies a pilot beginning to taxi without confirming that security has cleared an obstruction,” Keyamo said.

Directive: Equal Accountability

While acknowledging the NCAA's decision to suspend the pilot, Keyamo emphasized that Kwam 1 must face the same level of accountability.

“I’ve directed the NCAA to immediately place Kwam 1 on a no-fly list, pending a full investigation—just as was done with the pilot. All airlines, both domestic and international, are to be informed without delay. Any airline that violates this directive risks suspension or withdrawal of its operating license.”

Clarification: It Wasn’t About Alcohol

Initial reports had suggested the altercation began over suspicions that Kwam 1 was attempting to bring alcohol onboard. However, Keyamo clarified that the core issue was the obstruction of flight operations, not the content of the flask.

Kwam 1 has since denied the allegations, stating through his representatives that the flask in question contained nothing more than plain drinking water.