The Federal Government has dropped criminal charges against Ms. Comfort Emmanson and reduced the flight ban on Fuji star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) after high-profile aviation disputes.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, SAN, said the decisions followed consultations, public appeals, and remorse shown by both parties.

Ms. Emmanson was arrested on August 10 after refusing to switch off her phone aboard an Ibom Air flight, assaulting a flight attendant, and being removed from the aircraft. She had been serving time in Kirikiri Prison and faced a lifetime flight ban, which will now be lifted.

KWAM 1 faced sanctions after an August 5 incident at Abuja Airport, where he allegedly refused to surrender a prohibited flask, poured its contents on staff, and obstructed aircraft movement. His ban has been reduced to one month, and he will serve as an airport security ambassador.

The minister confirmed that airline staff involved will undergo retraining, while government agencies will hold a retreat to improve the handling of disruptive passengers and enhance staff conduct. Keyamo emphasized that the pardons were granted on compassionate grounds and warned against future breaches of aviation safety laws.

Source: Punch