NCAA Blacklists KWAM 1 from Flying in Nigeria, Suspends Pilots 

By: Mercy Folunsho

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has blacklisted a passenger involved in a recent security breach at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, for six months.

This follows his refusal to comply with standard aviation security protocols.

The passenger, identified as a well -known figure in the entertainment industry, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate is also facing potential prosecution as the NCAA prepares to write to the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police.

Speaking on the matter at the sidelines of the 29th Annual seminar of the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents, LAAC, in Lagos, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Mr. Michael Achimugu, described the incident as a blatant disregard for global aviation safety rules.

According to Achimugu, the passenger defied instructions from security personnel after being asked to relinquish a liquid container exceeding the permissible 100ml limit for carry-on items.

“This individual was told the item exceeded the allowed limit, yet he refused to comply and insisted on boarding with it”.

“He claimed to have a medical condition that required regular hydration. But could he not have been served water onboard? These are basic rules, and the question we must ask ourselves is: would he have behaved this way at Heathrow Airport or any other international hub?”

He stressed that aviation regulations are not designed to antagonize but to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew.

“These are global rules. They apply equally to everyone. If the President of Nigeria himself complies with airport security procedures, no citizen is above the law”.

He stated that, video evidence currently in possession of the NCAA shows the incident spiraling into a dangerous situation, as the pilot of the aircraft reportedly initiated taxi procedures despite the ongoing altercation on the tarmac.

Mr. Achimugu questioned whether the pilot acted with due diligence, especially given the number of ground staff and individuals near the aircraft.

In response, the Director General of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, has directed the immediate suspension of the pilot and co-pilot’s licenses pending the outcome of a thorough investigation.

“Everyone involved in this incident passenger or crew will be held accountable”.

The NCAA also used the opportunity to reiterate its stance on law enforcement and public awareness.

“Laws exist because people will break them, and that’s why enforcement institutions are in place. We’ve launched massive public education campaigns, and we will continue to do so. But where there’s a breach, there must be consequences”.

Reacting to claims that the passenger boasted of being close to the presidency and therefore above sanctions, Achimugu firmly debunked the notion.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, are both men who respect the law and subject themselves to security checks like every other citizen. The idea that anyone is above the law in this country is false and dangerous.”

The NCAA emphasized its commitment to restoring order and discipline within Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem, especially as passenger misconduct and clashes with airline staff become more frequent.

Mr. Achimugu reiterated that the authority is determined to ensure that no such infractions go unpunished, sending a strong signal that Nigeria’s airspace and airport operations will be governed strictly by the rule of law.