Ibom Air has confirmed a disturbing incident involving a passenger identified as Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who displayed violent and dangerous behavior aboard its Uyo–Lagos flight on Sunday, August 10, 2025, has since circulated widely in a viral video.
According to a press statement issued by the airline on Monday 11th August, the incident began shortly before take-off in Uyo, when Ms. Emmanson refused to comply with standard aviation safety protocols. She was asked by crew members to switch off her mobile phone, but bluntly refused. It was only after the Pilot-in-Command intervened via an announcement that a fellow passenger took the phone and turned it off.
The situation escalated when Ms. Emmanson responded with a verbal outburst. Though the crew managed to de-escalate the confrontation temporarily, allowing the flight to depart on schedule, further violence ensued upon landing.
After all other passengers had disembarked in Lagos, Ms. Emmanson approached the Purser — the crew member who had earlier addressed her — and launched a physical assault. “She stepped on the crew member, tore off her wig and glasses, and slapped her multiple times,” Ibom Air stated.
Another crew member who attempted to intervene was also reportedly slapped by Ms. Emmanson. In a further alarming escalation, she attempted to forcibly remove a fire extinguisher, a move which the airline said “could have damaged and grounded the aircraft.”
The Pilot-in-Command had already alerted airport security during the assault. A widely circulated video shows the Purser attempting to prevent Ms. Emmanson from exiting the aircraft until help arrived. Despite the arrival of Ibom Air and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) security personnel, the passenger continued to lash out violently.
“She attacked security officers as well, including slapping the ground supervisor after disembarkation,” the airline said. Ms. Emmanson was eventually restrained, removed from the ramp, and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force by FAAN security for further investigation.
Ibom Air Takes Strong Action Against Unruly Passenger, Reinforces Commitment to Safety
In response, Ibom Air confirmed that a report has been to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and has placed a travel ban on Ms. Emmanson. “She will no longer be permitted to fly on any of our aircraft,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its commitment to safety and professionalism, Ibom Air emphasized its zero-tolerance stance towards unruly passengers. “Such behavior will be met with the strongest possible response, including legal action and permanent restriction from our services,” the airline warned.
The airline also praised the handling of the incident by its crew and supporting security personnel. “We commend the bravery and professionalism of our crew in handling this situation under extremely challenging circumstances,” Ibom Air stated, adding that passenger safety remains its top priority.
Passengers are reminded to comply with all crew instructions while onboard, as such measures are critical for the safety, security, and comfort of everyone.
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