FG Reduces KWAM 1’s Flight Ban, Names Him Airport Security Protocol Ambassador
By Ekanem Asuquo
The Federal Government has named Fuji music icon, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security conduct, following his recent controversy at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the decision in a statement on Wednesday while unveiling measures to curb unruly behaviour within Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Keyamo said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s six-month flight ban to one month after considering appeals from respected Nigerians and the artiste’s public show of remorse over the August 5 incident.
“The NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to a one-month period. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will also work with him to engage in public enlightenment campaigns as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward,” the minister stated.
He added that the NCAA would withdraw its earlier criminal complaint against the musician, noting that the clemency was granted on compassionate grounds after KWAM 1 admitted fault and apologised to the public.
The incident in question reportedly involved the musician carrying a prohibited flask into the airport, spilling its contents on security personnel, and walking onto the aircraft tarmac, allegedly obstructing the taxiing of a ValueJet plane to Lagos. The NCAA had described the act as a breach of aviation safety regulations, imposing a no-fly sanction and referring the matter to the police.
In his defence, KWAM 1 said the flask contained water for medical purposes and not alcohol, as alleged. Days later, he tendered an apology, which was followed by appeals from influential figures urging the government to temper justice with mercy.
Keyamo, however, cautioned that the aviation authorities would not hesitate to enforce safety and security laws fully, regardless of status or profession.
