The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has addressed Tuesday’s incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, involving a musician and a ValueJet pilot.
Mrs Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed that King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as K1 De Ultimate, was due to board a morning flight VK 201 to Lagos.
She said preliminary findings confirmed the musician attempted to carry an unidentified liquid on board, in spite of repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) and the Flight Captain.
She noted that under international standards, including Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Security Programme and ICAO Annex 17, liquids above 100ml must be declared and medically justified.
The passenger was reportedly informed but declined to comply with the regulation.
“As boarding continued, an airline security officer asked the passenger to step aside for clarification,” she said.
“FAAN reiterates its firm commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel,”.
She added that FAAN would not condone actions that compromise operations or violate aviation safety rules, regardless of who is involved.
“This matter is under thorough investigation. All responsible individuals will be held accountable according to the law,” Orah added.
Wasiu Ayinde Marshal reacts
In a statement issued by the Media Aide to K1 De Ultimate (KWAM 1), Kunle Rasheed, it was stated that the claims of FAAN were misleading.
The statement read:
“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) displayed unruly conduct while attempting to board a ValueJet flight on August 5, 2025, allegedly causing a breach of aviation protocol. We wish to categorically state that this narrative is not only exaggerated but also misleading.
“At no point did K1 act in a manner that endangered lives or breached safety regulations. The substance in question — which was wrongly sensationalized — was nothing more than plain drinking water, given to him at the airport lounge while he waited to board the aircraft. Despite his respectful effort to clarify this, the situation was unnecessarily escalated.
“Claims that K1 blocked the aircraft or attempted to disrupt operations are completely unfounded. The veteran artiste, who is globally respected and frequently travels both locally and internationally, understands and strictly adheres to aviation protocols.
“If indeed there had been anything inappropriate in his conduct, the Head of Airport Security, officials from relevant agencies such as FAAN and NCAA, as well as the Chairman and Managing Director of the airline, would not have reached out personally to appeal, tender apologies, and even go as far as arranging a private jet to fly him to Lagos — at no cost. Despite persistent persuasion from the airline’s top executives, K1 graciously declined the offer.”
“No one else but him and his personal assistant was directly involved. A few concerned passengers who witnessed the incident firsthand appealed to him to remain calm, recognizing the undue pressure he was under.”
“in light of recent developments, it is important to note that the pilot involved now has her license suspended. Given the circumstances, it is no surprise if she attempts to deflect blame — surely, she must lie to cover herself up’.
