LAGOS, Nigeria — Ibom Air has taken decisive action against a passenger accused of violent behavior during a recent flight. The airline announced a permanent ban on the individual following an incident involving multiple crew members and security personnel during a flight from Uyo to Lagos on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
According to reports from the airline, the passenger, identified as Ms. Comfort Emmanson, initially defied requests to turn off her mobile device prior to take-off. This prompted another traveler to intervene, turning off the phone, which reportedly triggered an aggressive reaction from Emmanson.
Upon landing in Lagos, Emmanson allegedly targeted airline staff as other passengers disembarked. Accounts indicate that she attacked the cabin manager, stepping on her and forcibly removing her wig and glasses, while also hitting her with footwear. A crew member who attempted to assist was reportedly slapped during the ordeal. In an alarming escalation, Emmanson tried to seize a fire extinguisher from the cabin, a move that raised serious concerns about the safety of the aircraft.
The pilot on board alerted airport security, but it was the proactive step by the cabin manager that prevented Emmanson from leaving the plane before security personnel arrived. Once on the scene, officials from Ibom Air and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) faced further aggression as Emmanson allegedly assaulted them, striking both security staff and a ground supervisor before being restrained and removed from the aircraft.
Following the incident, Ms. Emmanson was taken into custody by FAAN security and subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation. The airline emphasized its commitment to maintaining safety and has reported the matter to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.
Ibom Air reiterated its zero-tolerance policy regarding unruly behavior and commended its crew for their professionalism in managing such a distressing situation. The airline has called on all travelers to heed safety instructions, emphasizing the importance of cooperation for the security and comfort of everyone on board.