By Francis Ajuonuma
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed an incident involving renowned Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, which disrupted a scheduled domestic flight at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Monday, August 5, 2025.
According to a statement issued by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, the incident occurred during boarding procedures for a ValueJet Airlines flight (VK 201) bound for Lagos.
Preliminary findings revealed that KWAM 1 attempted to board the aircraft with an unidentified liquid substance, despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) officials and the flight captain.
Under Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and international regulations, liquids exceeding 100ml are not permitted beyond security checkpoints unless declared and medically necessary.
FAAN said the passenger was made aware of this rule but refused to comply.
Tensions escalated when a security officer requested the musician to step aside for clarification. FAAN said KWAM 1 allegedly refused and spilt the contents of the flask on the officer.
The substance was later suspected to be alcohol. The disruption prompted the Flight Captain to intervene, but she also met resistance.
After boarding was completed, the captain ordered the aircraft doors to be closed, but the passenger reportedly moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to leave despite repeated requests.
AVSEC crime unit officials were called in and eventually escorted the musician away for further investigation. He was later released.
FAAN has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on behaviour that threatens aviation safety or undermines operational standards.
“The Authority will not tolerate any action that compromises operational integrity or aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved,” the statement read.
FAAN further assured that the matter remains under thorough investigation and that all parties found culpable would be held accountable by the law.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over celebrity conduct at airports and the need for strict adherence to aviation regulations by all passengers.
