She called for an “independent review of everything that happened — from the cabin exchange to ground handling
Ibom Air Incident: Comfort Emasson Apologises Over Mid-Flight Bust-Up, Condemns ‘Humiliating’ Treatment
Ms. Comfort Emasson has issued a public apology over her role in the confrontation that led to her removal from an Ibom Air flight on Sunday, August 10, 2025. While expressing regret for her conduct, she also condemned the way she was restrained and filmed during the incident.
In a statement released on Saturday, Emasson acknowledged that her behavior on the Uyo–Lagos flight could have been better managed.
“I acknowledge that emotions ran high and that I could have handled myself better. Airplanes are safety-critical environments, and crew instructions matter,” she said. “If my words or actions contributed to disorder on board, I am sorry for that. I do not condone violence.”
The airline had alleged that Emasson assaulted a flight attendant before being forcibly removed by security personnel on arrival in Lagos. Viral videos of the removal showed her in a disheveled state, which she described as “humiliating and degrading.”
“No one deserves to be treated without dignity — even in conflict,” she stated, noting that the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) had condemned the incident and called for accountability.
After her arrest, Emasson was briefly remanded before the Federal Government ordered the withdrawal of charges against her on August 13. Initially placed on a lifetime “no-fly” ban, reports on August 15 indicated that airlines lifted the sanction following a regulatory review.
While taking responsibility, she insisted that lessons must be learned from the episode. She called for an “independent review of everything that happened — from the cabin exchange to ground handling,” and urged the establishment of clear rules prohibiting the filming of restrained passengers.
The lawyer further appealed to the public for civility, urging against threats or harassment of anyone connected to the case.
“I am grateful to my family, friends, legal team, and Nigerians who insisted that safety and human dignity can — and must — coexist. I’m healing and hopeful,” she said. Read More
