Ibom Air has confirmed a permanent travel ban on passenger Ms. Comfort Emmanson following what the airline described as a “serious safety breach” on its Uyo–Lagos flight on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
In a statement on Monday, the airline said the incident began shortly before take-off when Ms. Emmanson refused repeated instructions to switch off her mobile phone in line with standard aviation safety procedures. It took an intervention from a fellow passenger and an announcement from the Pilot-in-Command before the phone was turned off, prompting what the airline called a “verbal tirade” from the passenger.
Upon arrival in Lagos, events escalated dramatically. According to Ibom Air, Ms. Emmanson confronted the Purser who had earlier instructed her, stepping on her, forcibly tearing off her wig, removing her glasses, and striking her with footwear. She allegedly slapped the Purser multiple times and also assaulted another cabin crew member who tried to intervene.
The airline further alleged that the passenger attempted to seize a fire extinguisher — a move they warned could have damaged and grounded the aircraft — before being stopped. The Pilot-in-Command alerted airport security, and viral footage showed the Purser preventing Ms. Emmanson from leaving the aircraft until security arrived.
Ibom Air said the arrival of both its security team and FAAN officials did not deter the passenger, who allegedly attacked them and even slapped the ground supervisor after being removed from the aircraft. She was eventually restrained, taken into custody by FAAN security, and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for investigation.
The airline said it has filed a detailed report with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and has placed a permanent travel restriction on Ms. Emmanson.
“Ibom Air reiterates its zero-tolerance policy towards any form of unruly or violent conduct that threatens the safety of passengers, crew, or equipment. Such behaviour will be met with the strongest possible response, including legal action and permanent restriction from our services,” the statement read.
The airline praised the “bravery and professionalism” of its crew in handling the incident and thanked airport security and the police for their swift response.
Ibom Air urged passengers to comply with crew instructions at all times “for the safety, security, and comfort of everyone on board.”
