August 11, (THEWILL) — Ibom Air has imposed a lifetime ban on a passenger, Comfort Emmanson, after a violent incident aboard its Uyo–Lagos flight on Sunday, August 10, 2025, which the airline said endangered crew, passengers, and aircraft safety.
In a statement on Monday, the airline said the trouble began shortly before take-off when Emmanson repeatedly ignored instructions to switch off her mobile phone in line with aviation safety rules.
She eventually complied after the Pilot-in-Command intervened and a fellow passenger turned off the device for her, sparking a verbal outburst before the situation was briefly calmed.
On arrival in Lagos, Emmanson allegedly waited until all passengers had disembarked before attacking the Purser who had earlier instructed her.
She was accused of stepping on the crew member, tearing off her wig, removing her glasses, smashing them on the floor, and assaulting her with her footwear.
She also allegedly slapped the Purser multiple times and attacked another cabin crew member who tried to intervene.
Ibom Air said she then attempted to forcefully remove a fire extinguisher from its mount, apparently intending to use it as a weapon.
The Pilot-in-Command had already alerted airport security, but before their arrival, the Purser, as seen in a viral video, physically prevented Emmanson from leaving the aircraft.
When Ibom Air and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria security officers arrived, the passenger allegedly assaulted them as well.
She was eventually restrained, removed from the aircraft, and handed over to FAAN security, who later transferred her to the Nigeria Police for investigation.
The airline said it has reported the incident to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on unruly behaviour, warning that such acts will attract the strongest sanctions, including legal action.
“We commend the bravery and professionalism of our crew in handling this situation under extremely challenging circumstances, as well as the swift support from airport security and the Nigeria Police,” the statement added.
