KWAM 1 gets FG reprieve, flight ban reduced to one month

KWAM 1 gets FG reprieve, flight ban reduced to one month

 

The Federal Government has reduced the flight ban imposed on Fuji music star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (popularly known as KWAM 1) over his unruly conduct while trying to board ValueJet plane at the Abuja airport.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, announced the decision on Wednesday following consultations with stakeholders in the aviation sector.

According to the minister, the resolutions were reached after reviewing the incident and another involving an Ibom Air passenger Comfort Emmanson. This, he said, followed appeals from well-meaning individuals, and considering the remorse shown by those involved.

Keyamo also said Ibom Air had agreed to withdraw its complaint against Ms. Emmanson, who was arrested over the August 10 incident.

The minister disclosed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority would reduce his ban to one month.

FAAN also plans to engage the musician as an ambassador for airport security protocols, according to the minister.

“Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA will withdraw its criminal complaint against KWAM 1,” Keyamo stated.

The one-month ban will also apply to ValueJet’s Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba, whose licences will be restored after mandatory professional reappraisal.

Keyamo announced that a retreat would be held next week to retrain aviation security personnel on managing disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations.

Airlines will also have dedicated sessions to address staff conduct towards travellers.

The minister declared that the clemencies were granted on compassionate grounds.

“Government will never pander to base sentiments, politically motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws is involved. We have decided to draw a line after these clemencies,” he said.