Ibom Airlines Limited has barred a passenger, identified as Comfort Emmanson, from flying with the carrier following an assault on a crew member during a flight from Uyo to Lagos.
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In a statement issued on Monday, the airline confirmed the incident took place on Sunday while the aircraft was preparing for departure from Uyo. According to Ibom Air, the altercation began when Emmanson refused to switch off her mobile phone despite being reminded of standard aviation safety regulations.
A fellow passenger eventually turned off the phone on her behalf, prompting Emmanson to launch into a verbal tirade. Matters escalated upon arrival in Lagos, where she confronted the Purser who had earlier instructed her, allegedly stepping on her, tearing off her wig, throwing away her glasses, and repeatedly slapping her. Another crew member who attempted to intervene was also slapped.
Airport security personnel were called in but faced resistance, with Emmanson reportedly attacking them before she was eventually restrained and removed from the aircraft.
The airline said it has lodged a formal report with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and stressed its zero-tolerance stance towards violent or unruly conduct that threatens the safety of passengers and crew.
Reacting to the development, the NCAA’s director of consumer affairs urged air travellers to adhere strictly to crew instructions, noting that such measures are in place to ensure the safety and smooth operation of flights.
