The Federal Government, through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has vowed to uphold strict aviation safety and security protocols following a disturbance at the domestic terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, involving renowned Nigerian musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate), and a ValueJet Airlines pilot.
In a statement signed by Mrs Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN confirmed that the incident occurred on Monday, 5th August 2025, during boarding of ValueJet Flight VK 201 to Lagos. Preliminary findings revealed that the passenger attempted to bring an unidentified liquid substance—later confirmed to be alcohol—on board, contrary to Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 17 regulations, which prohibit liquids exceeding 100ml unless medically necessary and duly declared.
Despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the Flight Captain, the passenger allegedly refused to comply, spilling the contents of the flask on an airline security officer. The altercation escalated when the passenger moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to vacate the area, prompting intervention from the AVSEC crime unit. He was escorted away for questioning and later released.
FAAN stressed that it would not condone any behaviour that threatens operational integrity or aviation safety, regardless of a passenger’s status. The authority assured that the incident is under thorough investigation and that all those found culpable will face appropriate legal consequences.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and compliance across Nigerian airports.
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