The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says Wasiu Ayinde, the popular Fuji musician, spilt alcohol on aviation personnel when they attempted to verify the content of a flask he wanted to travel with.
The FAAN spoke in a statement on Wednesday, confirming the involvement of the artist in an incident that led to the suspension of two pilots.
Ayinde is popularly known as Kwam 1 or K1 De Ultimate and commands a huge following in Nigeria’s music industry, having popularised the Fuji genre.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), on August 5, suspended two ValueJet pilots over a safety breach at the domestic terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The authority said the pilot commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.
On Wednesday, TheCable reported that the Fuji musician’s disorderly conduct led to the suspension of the pilots.
The report said Kwam 1, who was onboard a ValueJet plane on August 5, was seen drinking from a flask and was approached by a flight attendant who suspected that the content was alcohol — a substance prohibited onboard aircraft in Nigeria.
Speaking on the matter, the FAAN said investigations confirmed that the artist was scheduled to board the morning flight to Lagos operated by ValueJet Airlines (Flight VK 201).
The authority said Kwam 1 attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from the aviation security (AVSEC) personnel and the flight captain.
“In accordance with international aviation security standards specifically, Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and ICAO Annex 17 liquids exceeding 100ml are not permitted through security screening unless medically necessary and properly declared,” the statement reads.
“The passenger was informed of this regulation but reportedly declined to comply.
“As boarding continued, an airline security officer asked the passenger to step aside for further clarification.
“The passenger allegedly refused and spilled the contents of the flask on the officer, which turned out to be alcohol.
“The Flight Captain intervened but faced similar resistance. After confirming that boarding was complete, she instructed the closure of the aircraft door.
“At this juncture, the passenger moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to leave the area despite repeated requests.
“He was ultimately escorted away by AVSEC crime unit for further investigation, after which he was released.”
The FAAN warned that it will not tolerate any action that compromises operational integrity or undermines aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved.
The authority said that the matter is under investigation, adding that those found culpable will be held accountable according to the law.
