Airline Operators of Nigeria Slams Lifetime Flight Ban on Passenger Over Violent Assault

Airline Operators of Nigeria has slammed a lifetime flight ban on passenger over violent assault.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has imposed a lifetime no-fly ban on Comfort Emmanson, a passenger accused of violently assaulting airline officials on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos.

AON spokesperson, Obiora Okonkwo, announced the ban on Monday, stating it takes immediate effect and applies to all AON member airlines, both domestically and internationally. He warned that similar unruly behaviour would attract the same penalty in future.

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The incident, described as one of the most severe cases of air passenger misconduct in 2025, reportedly began when Emmanson refused to switch off her mobile phone before take-off. After another passenger switched it off, she allegedly verbally abused crew members.

Upon arrival in Lagos, she was said to have launched a sustained physical attack on the flight purser, tearing off her wig and glasses, stepping on her, and assaulting her with footwear. She also slapped another crew member and attempted to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon.

Security personnel from Ibom Air and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) were allegedly attacked as well, before she was restrained and forcibly removed from the aircraft.

Ibom Air confirmed that the incident endangered crew, passengers, and the aircraft’s safety. Viral videos from the scene showed Emmanson repeatedly slapping a flight attendant.

She was later charged in court and remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos.

The ban follows recent incidents of passenger misconduct, including one involving Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) and former Edo State governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole. AON has urged FAAN to tighten airport security nationwide.