Ibom Air Bans Passenger for Life After Lagos Bust-Up

Ibom Air has imposed a permanent travel ban on a passenger identified as Comfort Emmanson after an onboard altercation and a confrontation with airport security on the airline’s Uyo–Lagos service on Sunday. The carrier said the passenger’s conduct “posed a serious threat to the safety of our crew, passengers, and aircraft.”

In a statement, the airline alleged Ms. Emmanson refused to switch off her phone before departure from Uyo, then, upon arrival in Lagos, attacked the Purser—tearing off her wig and glasses—slapped another crew member, and attempted to yank a fire extinguisher from its mount. Ibom Air said security was called and the passenger was restrained and handed over to the Nigeria Police. The company also filed a report with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and affirmed a “permanent restriction” from its services.

Multiple videos shared online showed a scuffle aboard the aircraft and later on the tarmac at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where security operatives moved the passenger into a waiting bus. The NCAA’s spokesperson, Michael Achimugu, reacting to the clips, reminded travelers to comply with crew instructions on safety procedures, including switching off mobile devices during takeoff and landing.

The ban follows earlier incidents this year involving unruly behavior affecting Ibom Air operations, which prompted warnings from aviation authorities. Ibom Air reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for violence or interference with crew duties and said legal action may follow.