Abuja, Nigeria – An Ikeja Magistrates’ Court in Lagos has discharged Comfort Emmanson, a passenger accused of unruly behaviour and assault on an Ibom Air flight, after the airline withdrew its complaint.
The decision was made following consultations between the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and aviation stakeholders. The minister’s office said the resolution was based on a review of the incident, appeals from individuals, and remorse shown by those involved.
Ms Emmanson was arrested over the incident, which occurred on August 10, and was remanded in a correctional facility after being unable to meet her bail conditions. She has since been released and has thanked her supporters on social media, adding that she requires medical attention due to the way she was treated.
Airlines Consider Unruly Passenger for Ambassador Role
In a surprising turn, Mr Keyamo announced that airline operators are considering appointing Ms Emmanson as an “ambassador for good passenger conduct.”
He said the role, which would be voluntary and unpaid, is being considered alongside a similar role for Fuji star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as KWAM 1, who was involved in a separate airport incident. The minister explained that this is a common practice for “repentant offenders” to publicly advocate against the conduct for which they were sanctioned. He also clarified that the role does not come with any official perks.
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