Below is the Details of What Happened Between Ibom Air Passenger and Cabin Crew That Led to Fight and Lifetime Ban
A routine Uyo-to-Lagos flight on Sunday turned chaotic when a disagreement between a passenger and cabin crew escalated into a violent confrontation, prompting Ibom Airlines Limited to issue a lifetime ban on the passenger involved.
According to the airline, the trouble began moments before take-off when the passenger, identified as Comfort Emmanson, was asked to switch off her mobile phone in line with aviation safety rules. She allegedly refused several times, only complying after the Pilot-in-Command made an announcement and a fellow passenger seated beside her took the phone and switched it off. This action reportedly angered Emmanson, who launched into a verbal tirade before being calmed by the crew.
The flight continued without incident until arrival in Lagos. However, instead of disembarking with other passengers, Emmanson allegedly waited for the aisle to clear before confronting the Purser who had initially given the safety instruction.
What followed, according to Ibom Air, was a physical assault: Emmanson reportedly stepped on the Purser, tore off her wig, removed her glasses and threw them to the floor, struck her with footwear, and slapped her repeatedly. When another crew member tried to step in, she allegedly slapped her too.
The situation escalated further when Emmanson attempted to grab a fire extinguisher on board, which the airline said could have caused serious damage. The Pilot-in-Command had already contacted airport security, and the Purser physically restrained her until help arrived.
Even after airport and airline security officers boarded the plane, Emmanson allegedly attacked them as well, slapping the ground supervisor and resisting attempts to remove her. She was eventually escorted off the aircraft ramp by Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) security personnel and handed over to the Nigerian Police.
Ibom Air has since reported the matter to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and stressed that Emmanson will never be allowed to fly on any of its aircraft again.
The airline commended its crew for their professionalism under pressure and thanked security agencies for their swift response. Aviation stakeholders have condemned the attack, warning that such behaviour endangers safety and will not be tolerated.
