By Attah Ede
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), on Wednesday, said that popular Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), violated aviation regulations by trying to take an alcoholic drink into a commercial airline and disrupting the airline’s operations.
In a statement on Wednesday, FAAN said its preliminary investigations of the incident that happened on Monday, showed that the KWAM I) was slated to board the morning flight to Lagos operated by ValueJet Airlines (Flight VK 201).
FAAN noted that during boarding, the passenger attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the Flight Captain.
The aviation authority in a statement by Mrs Obiageli Orah, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, explained that the airline’s efforts to get the passenger to step down the alcoholic drink before boarding the flight to Lagos proved abortive.
“As boarding continued, an airline security officer asked the passenger to step aside for further clarification. The passenger allegedly refused and spilled the contents of the flask on the officer, which turned out to be alcohol. The Flight Captain intervened but faced similar resistance.
“In accordance with international aviation security standards specifically, Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and ICAO Annex 17 liquids exceeding 100ml are not permitted through security screening unless medically necessary and properly declared”, she said.
According to the director, the passenger was informed of this regulation but reportedly declined to comply and after confirming that boarding was complete, she instructed the closure of the aircraft door.
“At this juncture, the passenger moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to leave the area despite repeated requests.
“He was ultimately escorted away by AVSEC crime unit for further investigation, after which he was released.
“FAAN reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel.
“The Authority will not tolerate any action that compromise operational integrity or undermine aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved.
“This matter remains under thorough investigation, and all parties found culpable will be held accountable according to the law.
“FAAN is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and regulatory compliance across all Nigerian airports”, the statement said.
Why should a popular musician like Kwam 1 resist security checks, to insist on what he wants in a public domain?