Ibom Air confirms an incident involving an unruly passenger, Ms. Comfort Emmanson, on its Uyo-Lagos flight on Sunday, August 10, 2025. Despite instructions to switch off her mobile phone before takeoff, Ms. Emmanson refused to comply, sparking a verbal tirade and eventual confrontation with the flight crew.
Upon arrival in Lagos, Ms. Emmanson’s behavior escalated into a violent assault on the Purser, including physical attacks and attempts to seize a fire extinguisher. The situation was brought under control with the assistance of airport security and the Nigeria Police Force.
By this time, the Pilot-in-Command had alerted airport security, and before the arrival of security Officers, the Purser as seen on the viral video on the internet, prevented the passenger from leaving the aircraft.
Surprisingly, the arrival of Ibom Air Security personnel, did not deter the passenger as she attacked them as well, lashing out violently at both Ibom Air and FAAN security. She was then restrained and removed from the aircraft by force. Even after disembarking, she continued to assault both Ibom Air and FAAN security staff, and even slapped the ground supervisor.
The passenger was removed from the ramp and taken into custody by FAAN security and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.
According to the statement, “Ibom Air has since submitted a report on the incident to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and placed a travel restriction on Ms. Emmanson, who will no longer be permitted to fly on any of our aircraft.”
Ibom Air reiterates its zero-tolerance policy towards any form of unruly or violent conduct that threatens the safety of passengers, crew, or equipment. Such behavior will be met with the strongest possible response, including legal action and permanent restriction from our services.
“We commend the bravery and professionalism of our crew in handling this situation under extremely challenging circumstances, as well as the swift support from airport security and the Nigeria Police.”
“Safety remains our highest priority. We urge all passengers to comply with crew instructions at all times for the safety, security, and comfort of everyone on board,” the statement concluded.
