COMFORT Emmanson, the Ibom Air passenger whose controversial in-flight altercation led to her detention, has spoken publicly for the first time since regaining her freedom.
In a surprising twist, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) is now considering making her an ambassador for good passenger conduct, according to Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo.
Emmanson, who was remanded after a viral incident aboard an Ibom Air flight, was released on Wednesday, August 13, following the withdrawal of the complaint against her.
The release came after interventions from the Federal Government.
Taking to Instagram shortly after her release, Emmanson, known online as #soft_commy expressed heartfelt gratitude to her supporters.
“Thank you so much for the prayers, love and support. I’ve been released from the prison, but I’m still in pains due to how I was treated.
“I just need some rest and medical treatment before I give out my own version of the event,” she wrote.
“I really appreciate y’all from the bottom of my heart. God bless you all. Thank you, my great God!!!”
Her post, which has already garnered thousands of likes and supportive comments, sparked renewed calls from Nigerians for an official investigation into her treatment while in custody.
In a statement released the same day, Minister Keyamo revealed that the AON is considering turning Emmanson’s ordeal into an opportunity for advocacy.
“Whilst the aviation agencies are considering using KWAM 1 for such a role [airport security protocol ambassador], in my discussion last night with the Airline Operators of Nigeria, they are also looking at the option of using Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who has also shown remorse, as their own ambassador for good passenger conduct,” Keyamo stated.
The minister stressed that her release was facilitated by his earlier intervention and underscored the government’s commitment to fairness.
“It is left for the AON to work out those details since she was actually released from prison custody today. Whilst the usual suspects can continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have been fair to all,” he added.
The incident that brought Emmanson into the public eye began with a confrontation between her and an Ibom Air crew member, captured in viral videos that quickly spread across social media. The footage showed Emmanson allegedly assaulting a flight attendant, leading to her arrest and remand.
Ibom Air previously acknowledged the incident in a statement, describing it as a “customer service issue” under internal review, though the airline has yet to issue any public comment on her latest remarks or the ambassadorial proposal.
Public opinion remains divided. While some Nigerians believe Emmanson’s detention was justified, others say her treatment was disproportionate and symptomatic of deeper issues in the aviation industry’s handling of passenger disputes.
If appointed, Emmanson’s new role would mirror similar moves in the aviation sector, such as the Federal Government’s reported engagement of Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) as an ambassador for airport security protocol after his own controversial airport incident earlier this month.
For now, Emmanson has promised to share her full side of the story after recovering physically and emotionally.
Whether she emerges from the controversy as a cautionary tale or a reformed advocate for good passenger behaviour will depend on the outcome of ongoing discussions between the AON and aviation authorities.