Ibom Air has imposed an indefinite flight ban on passenger Comfort Emmanson, accused of assaulting crew members on a flight to Lagos.
The airline characterized the August 10, 2025, incident as a grave violation of aviation safety in a statement on Monday, noting the passenger’s actions endangered crew members, fellow passengers, and the plane.
Ibom Air stated that the issue started shortly before takeoff from Uyo when Ms. Emmanson failed to switch off her mobile phone despite repeated instructions from the Purser, only complying after the Pilot-in-Command intervened and a fellow passenger turned off the device.
The airline reported that upon arrival in Lagos, the passenger confronted the Purser, violently removing her wig and glasses, throwing them to the floor, and then assaulting her with her footwear, slapping her several times. The passenger also allegedly struck another crew member who attempted to intervene.
Ibom Air further alleged that Ms. Emmanson attempted to seize a fire extinguisher to use as a weapon, an act that could have damaged the aircraft.
Airport security was alerted by the Pilot-in-Command, and the passenger was held onboard until FAAN security officers arrived, but according to the airline, she persisted in her assault, targeting security staff and ground supervisors, necessitating her forced removal and handover to the Nigeria Police Force.
Ibom Air said the matter has been reported to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and confirmed that Ms. Emmanson is now permanently barred from flying with the airline.
