An Ikeja Magistrate’s Court has ordered the remand of an Ibom Air passenger, Comfort Emmanson, at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for allegedly assaulting crew members on board a Uyo–Lagos flight.
The incident occurred on August 10, 2025, after Emmanson reportedly refused repeated instructions to switch off her mobile phone before take-off. She allegedly complied only after the pilot intervened with the assistance of another passenger.
Upon arrival in Lagos, the suspect is said to have physically attacked the flight purser and another crew member, stepping on and slapping them, striking with her footwear, tearing a wig, and removing a pair of glasses. She also allegedly attempted to remove a fire extinguisher from its holder before being restrained by security.
Prosecutors told the court that Emmanson resisted arrest, attacking airport and ground personnel. She was arraigned on multiple counts, including assault, disorderly conduct, and malicious damage, offences contrary to the Lagos State Criminal Law and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria bye-laws.
Magistrate A.O. Layinka ordered her remand after she failed to meet bail conditions. The case was adjourned until October 6, 2025, for hearing.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria has placed Emmanson on an indefinite no-fly list, while Ibom Air has issued a lifetime ban. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Aviation have warned that such conduct will not be tolerated and pledged strict enforcement of aviation safety rules.
